Eric Boullier handed French Grand Prix advisory role

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Former McLaren racing director Eric Boullier is set for an F1 comeback, the Frenchman taking on an advisory role with the French Grand Prix organization.

Boullier was called upon by the event's organizer, the GIP (Group of Public Interest) chaired by Christian Estrosi, to act as an official ambassador for the race as well as a strategic advisor.

Back when the French Grand Prix was seeking a return to the F1 calendar, and before Liberty Media took over the sport, Boullier had been entrusted by Estrosi to kick start negotiations with former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

"I'm happy and proud to have the opportunity to work once again with the French Grand Prix team," said the former Renault and McLaren manager.

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An aeronautical and space engineer by formation, Boullier's motor racing expertise will be put to good use by the GIP said its chief executive Gilles Dufeigneux.

"Eric's advisory role will help us continue to develop our actions and sustain the success of this great national and International event."

Boullier gained access to Formula 1 in 2010 with Renault, overseeing the team's transition to Lotus before moving to McLaren in 2014.

Unfortunately, the 45-year-old became collateral damage last summer when the Woking-based outfit initiated a management restructuring, forcing Boullier to resign.

His departure from McLaren was likely subject to a non-compete employment agreement that barred Boullier from working in F1 for a defined period, the end of which has obviously been reached.

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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.