Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsLotus F1

Lotus takeover set to drag on

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Renault's planned buyout of Lotus may still be a few months away according to the Enstone's squad deputy team principal Frederico Gastaldi.

Renault recently signed a letter of intent signaling a buyout in principal of Lotus, but while the French manufacturer referred to an impending deal which was weeks away it now looks like a final agreement will not materialize until December.

Speaking to Danish newspaper BT, Gastaldi has offered some insight into the current proceedings which appear far from finalized.

"It's not just our decision," Gastaldi said.

"The whole acquisition process is a long one and will probably run into to December. I doubt any decisions will be taken before then unless Renault management suddenly decide otherwise."

Such a late conclusion will surely complicate matters further with regard to choosing a driver to partner Pastor Maldonado. Signing someone from this year's current crop of active drivers would appear doubtful as availability would be scarce in December.

A logical choice for Renault would be to contract former Toro Rosso driver and current Ferrari test driver Jean-Eric Vergne, although Gastaldi underlines that nationality is not relevant.

"My personal opinion is that nationality is not going to play a role. But, again, this is something the new owners will have to evaluate."

Losing Romain Grosjean was obviously a blow for Lotus, and for Renault's prospects given the Frenchman's credentials and experience.

"We were shocked that Romain decided to leave us, as he was the obvious man for the job," said Gastaldi.

"He has experience, he has been with us for years and he is French. So we were surprised when he decided to leave for Haas. We were not preparing to have to find a new driver, and I can honestly say that at the moment we do not even have a list of potential names."

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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.