Vettel takes a pass on Race of Champions event

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Sebastian Vettel won't be taking part in the annual Race of Champions event scheduled to take place in January in Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh.

The Ferrari driver has been a regular participant in the traditional event which pits drivers from various categories of motorsport against each other in a variety of machines.

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In his bid to hit the ground running with the Scuderia in 2018 and challenge once again Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton, the German will kick start his preparation earlier than usual.

When the Race of Champions gets under way in Riyadh, Vettel will already be hard at work in Ferrari's simulator, according to Germany's Sport Bild.

"My goal is to take Ferrari back to the top," said Vettel.

"I think it would be magical to take the title back to Maranello, just like Michael Schumacher managed to do. He still inspires me," said the 30-year-old.

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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.