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Ocon gets extra security for Mexico after threats!

Mexican Grand Prix organisers have upped security measures around Esteban Ocon after the Force India driver received threats ahead of the race.

The Frenchman's intense rivalry with team mate Sergio Perez hasn't gone down well apparently with the Mexican's countrymen.

While both men have stayed out of each other's way since Force India changed their rules of engagement, spats in Canada, Azerbaijan and Belgium had Perez and Ocon at each other's throats, a state of affairs which has brought out the worst in some of Perez's fans.

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"I received many death threats since the Azerbaijan Grand Prix but today I have all the people I need for my safety," said Ocon.

"For now everything is fine and I hope it stays that way all weekend."

Organizers and Force India have tweaked Ocon's schedule and strengthened his security detail but the 21-year-old is still expecting the locals to give him a hard time, especially during the pre-race drivers' parade.

"As long as they don't throw rocks, it's ok."

Sergio Perez has played down the issue, believing his fans will refrain from adopting an unsportsmanlike attitude.

"I don't think the fans will be bad to Esteban," he insisted.

"I think they really like the sport and at the end of the day it's just a sport."

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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.