Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMercedes

Best race ever - Lauda

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Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 chairman Niki Lauda expressed his satisfaction with Lewis Hamilton's third World Championship title and the accomplishment of the Mercedes squad in what he considered the best race of the season.

"I can't complain, it was the best race ever today, exciting to watch and Lewis was fantastic" Lauda said.

As the Mercedes' drivers came under threat from Sebastian Vettel in the latter part of the race, uncertainty momentarily sipped into the German camp and Lauda was no exception.

"I was worried that Vettel could pass Nico and the whole thing would have been delayed," admitted the Austrian. "But in the end the whole team did a very good job, which is the most fantastic."

When it was pointed out to Lauda that Hamilton was now on an equal par with the great Austrian driver in terms of world championship titles, he offered a tongue-in-cheek response.

"Now he is only as good as I am," Lauda joked. "He's got three world championships but he will get better and win more, don't worry!"

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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.