Disappointed Berger 'surprised there are still so many F1 fans'

Former F1 driver Gerhard Berger says Liberty Media still has its work cut out for it to improve Grand Prix racing's show.

Berger, who now guides the destiny of Germany's DTM series, considers that much of Liberty's efforts since it took over the sport have been mere distractions.

"What I see are actions aimed at diverting attention," Berger told France's Auto Hebdo.

"Take the ban on grid girls, or the ban on changing the colour of one's helmet. Meanwhile, we fall asleep in front of the TV.

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"Liberty Media is trying to make the sport more attractive, but if the show on the track is not good, it is useless," the Austrian added.

"Honestly, I'm surprised there are still so many fans."

A 10-time Grand Prix winner and former Ferrari and McLaren driver, Berger chimed in on the latter's state of affairs and its depressing performance even after switching engine suppliers.

"It's a bit painful for me to see what's going on," he admitted.

"Based on my experience, things do not work this way. Perhaps I'm wrong, but for the moment, progress is slow.

"It's not my business but things are starting to get very complicated," Berger added.

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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.