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Alfa Romeo returns to Grand Prix racing with Sauber!

Alfa Romeo's legendary quadrifoglio will be back in Formula 1 next year, as the iconic manufacturer partners with Sauber.

The Swiss outfit's 2018 specification Ferrari power unit will be rebadged Alfa Romeo, and the team will carry the name Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team.

The association was widely expected as the Hinwil-based outfit hinted recently at closer ties with its engine supplier, while Ferrari chairman Sergio Marchionne also made clear that he wanted to bring the Alfa name back to F1.

"This agreement with the Sauber F1 team is a significant step in the reshaping of the Alfa Romeo brand, which will return to Formula 1 after an absence of more than 30 years," said Marchionne.

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"A storied marque that has helped make the history of this sport, Alfa Romeo will join other major automakers that participate in Formula 1.

"The brand itself will also benefit from the sharing of technology and strategic know-how with a partner of the Sauber F1 team's undisputed experience."

Sauber chairman Pascal Picci was also pleased with the new association which will only benefit the F1 team.

"We are very pleased to welcome Alfa Romeo to the Sauber F1 Team," he said.

"Alfa Romeo has a long history of success in Grand Prix racing, and we are very proud that this internationally renowned company has chosen to work with us for its return to the pinnacle of motorsport.

"Working closely with a car manufacturer is a great opportunity for the Sauber Group to further develop its technology and engineering projects.

"We are confident that together we can bring the Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team great success, and look forward to a long and successful partnership."

Alfa Romeo was a dominant force in Grand Prix racing at the inception of the Formula 1 world championship in 1950.

The manufacturer pulled out of racing at the end of the 1951 season but returned as a works team in 1979 for an unsuccessful period of seven years before leaving once again at the end of 1985.

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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.