Lauda quits TV gig with German broadcaster RTL

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Niki Lauda will no longer provide his insight and commentary to German broadcaster RTL in the future, relinquishing his role as TV pundit.

The Mercedes non-executive chairman and F1 legend has been a fixture for many years on RTL Germany, but Lauda decided that his time was up as a pundit.

The 68-year-old made the announcement during the Abu Dhabi coverage this weekend, flanked by shocked host, Florian King and Nico Rosberg.

"It was a personal decision that I made on Saturday," said the three-time world champion.

"I've done this for 21 years which is long enough."

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King admitted the announcement came out of the blue, in typical Lauda style.

"We had no idea beforehand. At first I thought Niki was kidding but then I looked him in the eye and realised he was serious."

"Niki stayed true to himself by taking a decision for himself and announcing it succinctly," added RTL sports boss Manfred Loppe. "We have to respect that."

Lauda's announcement comes at a time when RTL has yet to renew its contract with Liberty Media for 2018.

"You always have to expect something with Niki," said RTL commentator Heiko Wasser.

"In recent years, his contract negotiations were always clear but this year he did not do all of the races for us. That's why I'm not shocked.

"I don't really care who replaces him. First of all, I will be happy if Formula 1 is still on RTL."

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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.