Hamilton prominently absent from Monza media day

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Lewis Hamilton was granted a waiver by Mercedes and Formula 1 for Thursday's Italian Grand Prix media day at Monza.

The reason for the four-time world champion's conspicuous absence hasn't been disclosed but a Mercedes spokesman cited an "unavoidable personal commitment".

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Hamilton, who is expected to join his team later this evening, wasn't scheduled for today's official press conference that will however include his arch-rival Sebastian Vettel among the eight convened drivers.

Despite last weekend's defeat at Spa at the hands of Ferrari and Vettel, Hamilton still leads the world championship from the German driver by an advantage of 17 points.

After 13 races, both drivers have scored five wins so far this season, while Daniel Ricciardo has clinched two wins, his Red Bull team mate Max Verstappen securing one victory.

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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.