Eifel GP update: F1 cancels opening practice session

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Formula 1's return to the Nürburgring will have to wait a few hours as weather conditions surrounding the circuit have led to the cancellation of the Eifel GP's opening practice.

The session was twice delayed by 30 minutes but the mist and fog hovering in the Eifel area that are restricting F1's medical helicopter from flying have decided the FIA to call off today's opening.

The cancellation is unfortunately bad news for F1 rookies Mick Schumacher and Callum Ilott who were both scheduled to make their official F1 debut this morning, respectively with Alfa Romeo and Haas.

Also, the setback is unlikely to lead to outings for the two hopefuls at either Portimão or Imola as F1 teams will feel compelled to run their usual drivers on Friday morning at those venues given their lack of familiarity with the tracks. The same will likely apply to Istanbul.

So Bahrain or Abu Dhabi are the most likely next opportunities for the Ferrari juniors to enjoy a run in FP1.

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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.