Can McLaren keep its promises to its junior drivers?

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McLaren has apparently put a tempting carrot in front of its two junior Formula 2 drivers, Lando Norris and Nyck de Vries.

According to the latter, McLaren boss Zak Brown has committed to delivering an F1 drive with the Woking-based outfit in the event that either hopeful seals the title in F2 this year.

"If I become the Formula 2 champion in 2018, then I will get a seat in Formula 1," de Vries told Dutch publication De Tijd.

"It's spelled out in my contract in black and white and that's what Zak told me."

McLaren can 'forget' the mid-field and join the front - Alonso

While we won't doubt the young Dutchman's claim, such a promise could turn out to be difficult to uphold as it would necessarily entail the departure from McLaren at the end of this season of either Fernando Alonso or Stoffel Vandoorne.

One would suggest that the Belgian - whose contract expires at the end of 2018 - could become the odd man out if he fails to perform at the team's expected level.

Alonso's own contractual arrangements with McLaren in terms of duration are unknown, but if the papaya outfit's resurgence is confirmed this season, it's hard to imagine the Spaniard departing F1.

"The same conditions apply to Norris," added de Vries.

"Lando has some advantage, as his father has a good relationship with Zak and he pays for his career, but if I meet expectations in 2018, then I will be in Formula 1 next season.

"Everything is in my hands," de Vries added.

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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.