Alonso returns to F1 for Pirelli test with McLaren!

Fernando Alonso will be back in the cockpit of a McLaren F1 car next week, with the Spaniard earmarked for a the post-Bahrain Grand Prix test.

However, the two-time world champion, who remains an advisor to McLaren, will be entrusted with tyre testing for Pirelli with a full day of running onboard the Woking-based outfit's MCL34 scheduled on Tuesday and half a day on Wednesday.

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Formula 1 exclusive tyre supplier dictates what compounds will be tested but the run will still provide Alonso with a good opportunity to assess the qualities of McLaren 2019 contender, with the team certainly looking forward to their special advisor's feedback.

McLaren announced its lineup for next week's first in-season test on Twitter.

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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.