Financial backing key to Illien's involvement in F1

Ilmor co-founder engine guru Mario Illien says his company would require substantial financial backing to enter F1 as an independent engine manufacturer.

Illien, who partnered with Mercedes to become McLaren's engine builder in the 1990s, casts a positive eye on Formula 1's future engine platform, but does not see his company entering the sport anytime soon.

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"In principle it is the right direction -- the technology must become simpler and cheaper," the Swiss engineer told Auto Motor und Sport.

"But for a private manufacturer, we cannot do it without outside help.

"I could not develop a business model like we have in Indycar, because I would have probably only one or two customers. And if one does not pay the bill, I'm dead.

"Without a sponsor behind me I could not build this engine for Formula 1."

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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.