Boullier unconcerned by Alonso's grueling schedule

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McLaren's Eric Boullier isn't worried about Fernando Alonso's massive workload this season as the Spaniard dovetails Formula 1 with his WEC Toyota commitments.

While F1 and McLaren will take precedence over his World Endurance Championship programme with the Japanese manufacturer, Alonso is still currently looking at a 25-race schedule, with five consecutive races - including Le Mans - spread across June and July.

Boullier has no issues however with his drivers' hectic calendar.

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"Fernando is a professional sportsman who is able to prepare for this", the Frenchman told L'Equipe.

"Last year, Fernando raced on 34 weekends, competing under different names in karting and other series. It's what he likes to do."

The McLaren racing director believes Alonso's urge to compete stems from a lack of track time in F1 rather than from having to endure a painful winless period.

"We are in a sport where the driving is reduced more and more in order to lower costs," explains Boullier.

"But the drivers understand that the more they drive, even if it is in other categories, the more they keep up the practice.

"As a boss, I like this argument," he added.

"And if you are constantly racing, you have less temptations and fewer distractions."

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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.