Mick Schumacher to stay put in European F3 in 2018

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Mick Schumacher will undertake a second season of European F3 in 2018, the 18-year-old remaining with front-running squad Prema.

In 2017, the son of F1 legend Michael Schumacher concluded his maiden F3 campaign 12th in the junior championship, and as the third best rookie behind series winner Lando Norris and Jehan Daruvala.

Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport is reporting that a 2018 contract between Mick Schumacher and Prema should be agreed "in the next few days".

Luca Baldisseri, who worked with Michael Schumacher at Ferrari and oversaw the Scuderia's driver academy, has taken on an active role alongside the young German driver.

Great onboard footage of Mick Schumacher in his father's Benetton!

"It was very emotional to work with Michael's son, and in many ways he reminds me of his father," he said.

"A couple of times, I've even called him Michael on the radio," Baldisserri admitted.

Meanwhile, it's been four years since the seven-time world champion's tragic skiing accident.

The Schumacher family and the great champion's loyal assistant Sabine Kehm still refrain from offering any details linked to the former driver's health and condition

"Before the accident, he told me 'Don't call me to plan things, I would like to disappear," Kehm told French daily L'Equipe.

"It was his secret wish. That's why I do not say anything now."

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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.