New McLaren investment by Latifi not anchored to son's career

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McLaren has made clear that there is no material connection between the investment made by the group's new shareholder John Latifi and the career of his son, F2 racer Nicholas Latifi.

The Canadian businessman, who runs food giant Sofina Foods, has acquired an estimated 10 percent stake in the McLaren Group for approximately $200 million, fueling speculation that Latifi's son could be set to benefit from the investment.

McLaren confirms Michael Latifi as new Group shareholder

A spokesperson for the Woking-based outfit insists however that the deal is not anchored in any way to the 22-year-old driver's career.

"There is no connection between the investment in McLaren by Michael Latifi and the career of Nicholas Latifi as a driver," said the person speaking on behalf of McLaren.

"That is a provision in the deal that was made equally by Michael Latifi and McLaren."

The McLaren's Groups main shareholder remains Bahrain's Mumtalakat holding company which holds a 56 percent interest in the company, with Mansour Ojjeh's TAG Group a 14 percent investor.

Nicholas Latifi currently competes in F2 with DAMS and is also a Force India development driver.

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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.