'Really useful' to finish the year in F1- Gasly

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Toro Rosso rookie Pierre Gasly wants to continue building his F1 experience this year, even if it means missing out on a Super Formula title in Japan.

In order to undergo a proper evaluation, the 21-year-old Red Bull junior was drafted in to replace Dany Kvyat for Sepang and Suzuka.

The US Grand Prix in Austin clashes however with the final round of the Japanese Super Formula championship in which Gasly is currently second, with a shot at the title.

"If I can finish the year in F1, I will finish the year in F1. It’s my final target, it’s exactly where I want to be – in Formula 1," said Gasly.

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"It would be really useful experience. I keep learning in the car and feeling more confident so every lap I can get with the team will be useful for the future."

Red Bull has yet to decide the fate of Dany Kvyat, not only for the remainder of the season but also for next year, and also decide Gasly's short-term future.

Gasly said in Malaysia that no discussions about 2018 had taken place yet with his employer.

"[We] didn’t talk about it at the moment.

"They know what I think about it. If it was up to me, I would have already signed a contract.

"The only thing I can do is focus on my job and try to do the best I can. Last year was a good season.

"I went to Japan and tried to do my best there. I had a really good opportunity with Toro Rosso last weekend. I’m just trying to do my best."

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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.