Ricciardo an expensive but justified choice - Prost

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Renault special advisor Alain Prost admits the manufacturer went an extra mile to hire Daniel Ricciardo, but the F1 legend insists the Aussie is well worth the expense.

Since its return to Grand Prix racing as works team, the French manufacturer has made clear that it would not fulfill its F1 ambitions by outspending its rivals.

Renault has boosted its resources in the past twelve months, incrementally increasing its investments as it moves forward but on a justifiable basis.

Ricciardo sees 'shoey' podium with Renault in 2020, not before

Ricciardo's signing has followed the same principle says Prost.

"We are not going to spend money unless we know that it is worth it," explained the four-time world champion, speaking to The Guardian.

"Mercedes and Ferrari may have a different philosophy.

"Daniel is more expensive than other drivers," said Prost. "When you need that to help the team we did it. Money is not a problem but it has to be justified."

Overall, Prost considers Renault to be very well-armed for 2019 when it comes to its driver line-up made up of Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg.

"We have two top drivers, maybe one of the best lineups in F1 today," he said.

"They are Renault drivers, not owned by Red Bull or Mercedes.

"It shows everybody outside and inside that we want to do the best, the right choices at the right moment."

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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.