Renault confirms Sirotkin as reserve driver for 2020

©Renault

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The Renault F1 team has extended its relationship with Sergey Sirotkin who has been nominated as the French outfit's official reserve driver for the 2020 season.

Sirotkin, who raced for Williams in F1 in 2018, was first affiliated with Renault in 2017 but fulfilled the role of reserve driver for the Enstone squad last year.

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"We’re pleased to welcome Sergey back to the team for this year," said Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul.

"Given the current circumstances we find ourselves in, we must have plans in place for any situation which might occur.

"We know Sergey very well and he, likewise, knows the team. We’re looking forward to welcoming Sergey this weekend in Austria."

©Renault

All teams will have a reserve drive waiting in the wings in Austria and during the summer, as contingency plans will be required in case a driver tests positive for COVID-19.

"It’s great to be back with Renault DP World F1 Team as Reserve Driver," said the 24-year-old Russian.

"I know the team very well having been with them throughout the 2019 season.

"I understand the importance for a team to have a driver ready to fill in quickly should the opportunity arise, especially given the current situation the world is in.

"I’ve been keeping sharp and focused and I would be well prepared to race a Formula 1 car again. I’m looking forward to seeing my friends at Renault soon."

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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.