Petrov relinquishes FIA steward role after father's death

FIA Stewards Vitaly Petrov (left) and Tim Mayer.

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FIA driver steward Vitaly Petrov has left Portugal to return to Russia following the unexpected death of his father.

"The FIA confirms that, due to a personal bereavement, the Driver Steward for the 2020 FIA Formula 1 Portuguese Grand Prix, Vitaly Petrov, will not continue with his duties for the remainder of the weekend," the governing body stated late on Saturday.

"The thoughts of the FIA are with Vitaly and his family at this time.

"Bruno Correia, Safety Car Driver in the FIA Formula E Championship and FIA WTCR will take over the position."

Initial reports from Russia claim the former F1 driver's father, Alexander Petrov, was fatally shot at his home near the city of Vyborg, located in western Russia, near the Finnish border.

A well-known businessman and local municipal deputy, Alexander Petrov was instrumental in helping his son reach Formula 1 in which the latter competed from 2010 to 2013 with Lotus and Caterham.

F1i's thoughts and deepest sympathy are with Vitaly Petrov and his family at this difficult time.

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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.