Mercedes' Costa steps back as team changes technical structure

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Mercedes' engineering director Aldo Costa will be moving into a consultancy role with Mercedes as the German outfit shakes up its technical structure.

Costa, the man behind the Silver Arrows since 2011 and a chief architect of the squad's world titles since 2014, has felt the need to step back and assume a role of technical advisor.

Mercedes' engineering group will now be led by chief designer John Owen who will report directly to technical director James Allison.

Furthermore, Mercedes performance director James Ellis will relinquish his position as he embarks on a sabbatical year, and will be replaced by chief vehicle dynamicist Loic Serra.

"This is a significant moment for our team and a great opportunity," said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

"We have said many times that you cannot freeze a successful organisation; it is a dynamic structure and I am proud that we are able to hand the baton smoothly to the next generation of leaders inside the team."

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James Allison, who joined Mercedes from Ferrari in earmy 2017, paid a tribute to both Aldo Costa and Mark Ellis' contribution over the years.

"Our drivers, anyone who is a fan of our Team and, most of all, those of us lucky enough to work at Brackley and Brixworth, owe both Mark and Aldo a huge debt of gratitude," said Allison.

"As a Johnny-come-lately to this Team my own sense of gratitude is larger than most: not just for the fun and challenge of working alongside them over two seasons, nor only for the huge power of the engineering groups that they have created and lead, but above all for the unique manner and grace of their intended departure.

"Aldo and Mark signalled their intention to step down over a year ago and have continued to give heart and soul to the company.

"Mark and Aldo pass on an unrivalled technical legacy to worthy and well-prepared successors to whom they have set a magnificent example of top-drawer technical leadership."

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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.