Porsche pondering an entry into Formula 1 – Berger

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Porsche is considering an entry into Formula 1 for 2021 contends former McLaren and Ferrari driver, and DTM boss, Gerhard Berger.

The German manufacturer pulled the plug on its WEC programme at the end of last year to devote its resources to Formula E which it will enter in 2019.

However, it was revealed late November that a 30-strong engineering team devoted to developing hybrid technology has remained active in Weissach, perhaps building the foundation for a future F1 power unit.

"Porsche is thinking about a Formula 1 entry for 2021," Berger told Auto Bild.

"They are just waiting for the new engine regulations, which should be published in May, and then will decide," he added.

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F1 owner Liberty Media's sporting boss Ross Brawn said the sport would welcome Porsche to the grid.

"We want to have big names like Porsche in Formula 1 and are creating the environment for it," he said.

Porsche CEO Oliver Blume is mum however on the subject of the Stuttgart firm eventually returning to the fray of Grand Prix racing.

"I won't comment on Formula 1," said Blume last year.

"For now, we're concentrating on Formula E. At Porsche, we've always been well advised to focus on one thing, so as not to overstrain the company."

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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.