Gasly confirms Malaysia race opportunity with Toro Rosso

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Red Bull protégé Pierre Gasly acknowledged that he could soon step into the limelight and become Formula 1's next rookie.

Reports emerged over the weekend that Toro Rosso's Carlos Sainz will be moving to Renault in 2018, but could actually race for the French manufacturer as soon as the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix.

Sainz's transfer is the result of complex negotiations centered around McLaren's split from Honda and its switch to Renault engines. The Spanish driver would replace Jolyon Palmer, with Gasly filling the vacated seat at Toro Rosso for the remainder of the year.

Sainz in shock move to Renault for Malaysia!

"I've heard the story and I think all the details are being worked out now," said Gasly who just enjoyed timely back to back wins in the Super Formula series in Japan.

"Getting into Formula 1 is my dream and I am making every effort to fulfill it.

"I think there could be movement in the next couple of days, there may be some news, and I really hope that I can race (for Toro Rosso) in Malaysia," he added.

Gasly's longer-term future at Toro Rosso isn't guaranteed however as the Faenza-based squad could be compelled to take on Honda protégé Nobuharu Matsushita next season as part of its 2018 engine supply deal with the Japanese manufacturer.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.