Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsLotus F1

Garage lockdown for Lotus in Brazil

Local security blocked access to the Lotus garage at Interlagos on Wednesday, which prevented team personnel from unpacking the team's freight and equipment.

A team spokesman said that an unspecified 'commercial arrangement' had sparked the action by an opposing party which remains unknown. The team's participation in this weekend's Brazilian GP is not in doubt at this stage however.

There have been several instances this season when Lotus, which has been under constant financial stress this year, have been the subject of a claim of some sort.

At Spa, team trucks and equipment were impounded by Belgian bailiffs following a contractual dispute with former Lotus reserve driver Charles Pic, while the Enstone squad was also denied a supply of tyres by Pirelli in Hungary for delayed payments.

In spite of its financial distress, Lotus is still expected to be bought by Renault which is currently finalising a takeover deal with a formal announcement expected in Abu Dhabi in a fornight.

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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.