Kvyat gets head start on 2019 with Abu Dhabi post-season test

Daniil Kvyat, Toro Rosso, United States Grand Prix

Toro Rosso's line-up for F1's post-season Pirelli tyre test at Abu Dhabi will include returnee and 2019 driver Daniil Kvyat.

After more than a year on the sidelines, as a result of being dropped by Toro Rosso after the 2017 US Grand Prix, Kvyat has been given another chance by Red Bull.

The 24-year-old Russian will get a head start on his 2019 campaign with the Faenza-based squad by running on the second day of the Pirelli tyre test that place at Yas Marina in the week following the end of season Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Kvyat rebuilt 'mental state' during year away from F1

"Every mileage you can do in the car is good for him," Toro Rosso team boss Franz Tost told Motorsport.com.

"[The intention is] to give some mileage and to learn new tyres, to get a picture of what is going on with the car, although next year’s car is a different car because of aerodynamics.

"Nevertheless it is always good to do some mileage in the car."

Toro Rosso has yet to confirm who will be racing alongside Kvyat next season, with the seat expected to filled by incumbent Brendon Hartley or F1 racer Alexander Albon.

The latter is currently committed to racing in Formula E with the Nissan e.dams outfit, but talks are underway between the Japanese manufacturer and Red Bull to negotiate a release of the British-Thai driver from his contract.

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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.