Hartley gets a 'thank you' note from Toro Rosso

©WRI

Scuderia Toro Rosso has thanked Brendon Hartley for his service over the course of his 25-race stint with the Faenza-based squad, and which came to an end last weekend in Abu Dhabi.

The Kiwi was surprisingly called into the F1 fray at last year's US Grand Prix and confirmed with the team - along with Pierre Gasly - for 2018.

However, in a season in which he was generally outpaced by his team mate, Hartley's performance was judged as disappointing by Toro Rosso who have brought back Daniil Kvyat and hired rookie Alexander Albon for 2019.

Proud Hartley left Yas Marina his 'head held high'

Team boss Franz Tost nevertheless expressed his appreciation for the 29-year-old's efforts.

"We would like to thank Brendon for his hard work with the team," said Tost.

"It was not an easy task to move from sports cars to Formula 1, especially at short notice.

"His consistency over the final four races of 2017 earned him a 2018 race seat and, while ultimately we were not able to continue into 2019, he has been a key part of the team and aided the development of the Honda powertrain.

©ToroRosso

"We wish him all the best in his future endeavours."

After last Sunday's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hartley posted a message on social media insisting F1 was "unfinished business" as far as he was concerned.

Gaining access to the pinnacle of motorsport is a massive challenge for a driver, and one only surpassed by the difficulties of getting back in.

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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.