McLaren reveals cause of Alonso crash

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McLaren's Fernando Alonso's had a rocky start to pre-season testing, finding himself stranded in the gravel trap just six laps into the days' first session.

Alonso was on course to set the fastest lap of the day when the incident occurred, triggering the sessions' first red flag in the process.

Footage showed the McLaren heading into the final corner as the rear right wheel came loose, pitching car and driver in the kitty litter.

'Neat and tidy' MCL33 gives McLaren room to play

The MCL33 was hauled back to the McLaren garage where a thorough inspection revealed a wheel nut issue, according to Zak Brown.

"We had a wheel nut issue. We'll get back out here this afternoon," Brown said.

"I know Eric [Boullier, McLaren racing director] will be doing a debrief later today with all of today's activities, so I'll leave him to tell you about today.

"It's what testing is for. I think all teams will have a variety of issues throughout testing. That's exactly what it's for.

"We're going to lose very little time. It's no big deal at all."

Following repairs, McLaren was prepared to resume running with Alonso shortly before the lunch break.

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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.