Vandoorne just needs time to shine - Wolff

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Stoffel Vandoorne is generally perceived as not having lived up to expectations so far in his Formula 1 career with McLaren.

Last season, the Belgian was limited by the unreliable package provided by his team and Honda, but this year, a more trust-worthy Renault-powered MCL33 offers no such excuse.

Vandoorne consistent under-performance compared to team mate Fernando Alonso has put his future with the Woking-based outfit in doubt.

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A keen observer of young talent, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes patience is warranted regarding the 26-year-old.

"For me it's pretty simple with Stoffel," Wolff told Belgian broadcaster RTBF when asked about the McLaren driver.

"He is one of the most talented drivers on the grid. He beat everyone in GP2 and when he came to F1 many people said he was a future Senna.

"Expectations and comparisons like that are difficult for any young driver. It takes time," added the Austrian.

"You have to give a driver time to get kilometres and to learn. The whole environment is difficult and we had a good example last year with Valtteri Bottas who had a very good start but then it didn't go so well.

"Now he has come back very strong. I have no doubt that Stoffel has the intelligence and the talent to progress and become a very great driver. I hope he will get that time."

Vandoorne's countryman, three-time Grand Prix winner Thierry Boutsen has offered his support, but warns the McLaren needs to deliver.

"I'm his biggest fan, but his future is at stake now."

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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.