Hartley unfazed by switch to Honda power

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Brendon Hartley isn't worried by the prospect of racing next year with F1's most unreliable engine in his back.

Along with Pierre Gasly, the Kiwi was confirmed last week at Toro Rosso for 2018, but the team's switch from Renault to Honda power is not a cause for concern he says.

"I think in the past two races we've had no reliability at all from the engines we have," the 27-year-old rookie told Russia's Championat.

"At the same time, I am sure that working with Honda is a great opportunity for myself and the whole team and a very positive moment," Hartley added.

Toro Rosso 2018 contract not a surprise for Hartley

Indeed, since joining the F1 ranks in Austin, Hartley hasn't been spared from Renault's mechanical failures.

The 2017 winner of the Le Mans 24 Hours replaced Dany Kvyat at Toro Rosso, which apparently hasn't endeared him to the former Red Bull driver's fans in Russia.

"I guess I'm not the most popular in Russia right now," Hartley smiled,

"But seriously it's hard for me to comment. I didn't make the decision, and in Formula o1 we know these decisions are not always easy.

"It's a very difficult question, but from my side I can only say that I'm glad to get a second opportunity here," he 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.