Force India rubbishes buy-out rumors

Force India has released a statement in which it denies the team is on the verge of being sold, quashing rumors which emerged earlier this week.

British media reported that a takeover group led by Rich Energy founder William Storey, backed by "a wealthy consortium of business figures" were involved in talks to acquire Force India, with the Daily Mail suggesting a price tag of $280 million.

Mazepin gets Force India VJM11 roll-out privilege

The Silverstone outfit moved to deny any ongoing negotiations with any party or takeover group.

"Following recent media reports speculating on the sale of Force India Formula One Team Limited, the Company’s shareholders wish to clarify that there is no offer from potential investors under consideration," the team said in a statement released Thursday

"The Team is focussed on the start of testing next week where the 2018 car will be presented in Barcelona on Monday 26th of February," added the release.

"The team’s drivers, Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon, will pull the covers off the VJM11 and pose for photos in the pit lane at 8:00am local time."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.