F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Ferrari prepares new chassis for Vettel after FP2 problems

As a measure of precaution, Ferrari is preparing a new SF70H chassis for Sebastian Vettel following an issue encountered in FP2 on Friday.

The German driver admitted it had been a "messy" second free practice, with a spin into the gravel early on which limited his running and a front axle issue which emerged in the closing stages of the session.

"It was a messy afternoon and not an easy session but the car is quick so no need to worry," said Vettel, who completed just 11 laps.

Suzuka reprimand 'a bit of a joke', says Vettel

"The only lap I had was the one on the ultra soft. Before that I did a mistake taking too much risk earlier in the session. I lost the rear into Turn 19, it was my mistake. So we lost that set of tyres.

"At the end, there was something not right with the car. We came into check, we didn't find anything, then we went out again.

Vettel complained over the radio that the front end of his car felt like "jelly". A thorough investigation by the Scuderia's mechanics failed to reveal any obvious problem.

The Italian squad decided to play it safe however and has undertaken to build-up a new chassis after receiving the go-ahead from the FIA.

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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.