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There's no escaping F1's latest news for Valtteri Bottas

The F1 community enjoyed one last summer break weekend, but for Valtteri Bottas it's been hard to block out the news and releases from the past few days.

The Mercedes driver spent most of his time back at home in Finland, and even competed in his own duathlon event on Sunday.

Asked by the local media of about his views on the latest string of announcements to come out of the world of F1, Bottas offered his two cents on the two dominant subject: Daniel Ricciardo and Fernando Alonso.

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"I was not going to follow the news but it's been literally climbing into my ears," joked the Finn.

"Daniel Ricciardo made a serious decision because he wants to completely change his environment and take on a new challenge.

"Fernando Alonso had a long and successful career in Formula 1, and at some point he realised that it was time to stop. And Carlos Sainz will take his place and perhaps that change will do him good," he added.

Bottas was also asked about his own role, amid speculation he might soon have to take a back seat to teammate Lewis Hamilton's championship charge.

"Actually, I'm determined to continue to fight for the championship as long as there is a theoretical chance. It will only change if the team decides it," he said.

"Of course, Mercedes' interests are always above our own, so the decision will be made by the team, not by me."

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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.