Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has suggested that it was Lewis Hamilton who opted to part ways with long-standing physio Angela Cullen.

The pair announced their split out of the blue on Friday in Jeddah, with each paying a heartfelt tribute to the other which implied that the separation was amicable.

The news nevertheless came as a surprise given Cullen's seven-year established presence alongside the seven-time world champion.

Hamilton's post on social media dedicated to Cullen hinted at the 48-year-old Kiwi leaving to "pursue her dreams", but Wolff suggested that it was the Briton who had initiated the split.

"It was no surprise to us because Hamilton had been looking for change for a while," the Mercedes boss told Sky Sports.

Wolff later paid a tribute of his own to Cullen's work and "mascot" status with the Mercedes team.

"Angela was part of the gang for a long time," Wolff commented.

"I think in every team, whether that is his close circle, or also in the wider group, this is not a static situation that you can freeze, because we all develop as people, we develop as an organisation and if things don't work out anymore, then we need to be honest about it and then bring change.

"Angela will always be a mascot of the team. She's the only one who has a louder voice than a starting car.

"But, you know, if this is what he decides, we will always absolutely support him, whatever direction he wants to take."

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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.

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