Vandoorne ready to roll but 'waiting' on news from Mercedes

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Stoffel Vandoorne is set to travel to Bahrain, but the Belgian is still waiting on news from Mercedes about the possibility of replacing Lewis Hamilton at Sakhir.

Hamilton has tested positive for COVID-19 and is isolating in Bahrain, but Mercedes has given no clue about the identity of the driver that will fill the seven-time world champion's coveted seat next weekend.

As Mercedes' official reserve driver, Vandoorne is the Brackley squad's most logical choice.

Read also: Hamilton tests positive for COVID-19, will miss Sakhir GP!

The former McLaren charger, who wrapped up on Tuesday three days of Formula E testing in Valencia with Mercedes' FE outfits, was scheduled to travel to Bahrain before today's unexpected turn of events.

"At the moment, I don't know what's going to happen," he said.

"I know there is a chance for me to drive, but let's wait and see. I'm travelling there tomorrow and I'll find out probably.

"I got a first message this morning around 7, the team told me that Lewis tested positive, and that they were going to announce an hour later," Vandoorne added.

"But afterwards, it's just been kind of waiting for me, and to be honest, I've not really been able to think about it that much because I've been focusing on my Formula E test here.

"That's been the priority of the day. I know I'm travelling anyway out to Bahrain tomorrow, so yeah, let's wait and see."

Hamilton will quarantine for ten days in Bahrain, but it's currently unclear whether the Briton will return to action in Abu Dhabi.

Therefore, whoever inherits F1's best drive may enjoy two races with the championship winning team, and a career-defining opportunity to shine.

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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.