Weather delays opening practice for Eifel Grand Prix

The start of the Eifel Grand Prix's opening practice session has been delayed by the adverse weather conditions surrounding the Nürburgring.

The rain and foggy conditions do not currently allow for the track's on-site medical helicopter to take off, a pre-requisite set by the FIA for an event to get underway.

Race control initially delayed the session by 30 minutes but at 11:30am local time there we no change to the conditions, which forced another 30-minute delay on teams and drivers.

An outright cancellation of FP1 would deal a big blow to Ferrari juniors Mick Schumacher and Callum Ilott who are scheduled to make their official F1 debut in the opening practice session, respectively with Alfa Romeo Racing and Haas.

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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.