F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Honda success would make McLaren look 'silly' - Brown

McLaren boss Zak Brown admits the Woking-based outfit could look 'silly' if Honda takes a huge step forward in 2018.

The McLaren-Honda partnership reached its epilogue after a painful three-year unsuccessful period, with the British team parting ways with the Japanese manufacturer and switching its allegiance to Renault.

Honda will subsequently supply its power unit to Toro Rosso next season as it continues its quest for success in Formula 1.

"Obviously if Honda starts to win in 2018 and we're not, we will look silly," Brown told Spanish daily Marca.

"But I think everyone has to make their decisions and then accept the outcome. I think the moment you make any decision there is always an element of 'What if I'm wrong?'

"But I think everyone has done their homework and it was a group decision that was not easy," Brown said.

"It's like Indianapolis. Some said 'What if Alonso is injured?' 'What if we lose a great opportunity in Monaco?' But fortunately he (Alonso) drove perfectly and Jenson (Button) started from the pitlane.

"We have to look forward and not back," Brown added.

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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.

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