Santander out at Ferrari, Petrobras in at McLaren?

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There could be a few important commercial changes over the winter affecting Formula 1's two most successful teams, Ferrari and McLaren.

Scuderia partner Banco Santander shall apparently not be extending its sponsorship contract with the Italian outfit for 2018, a deal worth a reputed 40 million euros per year.

The financial institution chaired by Ana Botin has been part of Ferrari's identity in Formula 1 since 2010, initiating its commercial partnership when Fernando Alonso joined the House of Maranello.

Despite the Spaniard failing to secure a championship for the red squad during his tenure, Santander extended its four-year deal until 2017.

Ferrari was looking to renew its partnership with the bank and increase the value of its contribution for 2018 and beyond, but Santander has declined the offer, according to Spain's El Confidencial. It could however remain a secondary partner of the Scuderia in the future.

McLaren veto cuts off the fin in F1 for 2018

McLaren on the other hand looks set to secure a significant new sponsor next season, with former Williams partner Petrobras rumored to have inked a deal with the Woking-based outfit.

"Commercially we've had a good Q4," said McLaren boss Zak Brown in Abu Dhabi.

"We have signed two sponsors that we haven't announced yet so I think people can expect to see more great brands on the McLaren race car next year."

Last weekend, it was announced that McLaren junior Lando Norris will be joining Formula 2 outfit Carlin for 2018, where his teammate will be the Petrobras-linked Brazilian Sergio Sette Camara.

According to Brazilian TV, Sette Camara, Petrobras and McLaren are all being linked with a F1 deal for 2018.

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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.