Wolff provides reassurances on Mercedes' future

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Mercedes and Ferrari are wheel to wheel on the race track but when it comes to the future, the German manufacturer would not follow its rival out the F1 door, says Toto Wolff.

The Silver Arrows team boss believes Grand Prix racing is a compelling business activity for Mercedes, and while the world championship winning team shares part of the Scuderia's worries about the future of Formula 1, it ultimately remains committed to the sport.

"Formula 1 is part of our core business," said Wolff, speaking at the "Bild100Sport" conference in Berlin.

"The first Mercedes was a race car. Formula 1 is not just a marketing platform for us. There is a direct technology transfer from the series.

"In addition, we cherish the sportiness of our brand. That’s why we want to stay in the series because it’s the only true global platform that counts for us."

Bottas in favour of status quo at Mercedes

Beyond Formula 1, Mercedes is branching out into Formula E in 2019, but Wolff insisted the burgeoning electric series won't replace F1 as the brand's main racing front.

"Formula 1 is clearly the top class in racing. But electrification happens, and it is a good message for every brand," said the Austrian.

"Three years ago, I would not have given Formula E a chance. But that has changed. It addresses a young, urban target group.

"The series' creators have done a good job. For us, it’s like a start-up we’re interested in. But it is complementary to Formula 1 for us, not a competition."

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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.