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Vettel signs up for final Pirelli tyre test before Japan

Sebastian Vettel will take part in the final test of Pirelli's tyre development programme for 2020 scheduled at Barcelona just days before the Japanese Grand Prix.

The test was added just recently to the tyre supplier's schedule despite opposition from several midfield outfits who believed that the big three teams taking part in the test - Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull - will enjoy a head start over the rest of the field with regard to tyres for 2020.

However, the FIA pushed through the two-day Pirelli session that will take place in Spain on October 7-8.

Vettel will run on behalf of the Scuderia, while development drivers Esteban Ocon and Jake Dennis will handle testing duties respectively for Mercedes and Red Bull.

FIA steps in to force through extra 2020 Pirelli tyre test

"We've asked so many times different things of Pirelli, it was only our duty to do these tests when they ask us to go and test these latest evolutions," commented Ferrari sporting director Laurent Mekies.

"Yes, logistically it is complicated. Sebastian will drive there and at the very end of the test he will fly to Japan."

Red Bull chief engineer Paul Monaghan admitted the Milton Keynes-based team felt compelled to take part in the test despite the proximity and importance of Suzuka.

"We are heading to Suzuka and with Honda we want to be in the best shape we can be and now we're being pulled to Barcelona as well," he said.

"We will do it. We'll run a car. Mr Dennis is down to drive it, I believe he's going to drive it.

"He's driven our car plenty of times before and he'll be fine, he'll do a good job for us, and we'll go and do a tyre test."

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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.