Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsForce India

Force India to run Alfonso Celis in FP1 in Bahrain

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Force India development driver Alfonso Celis will make his Grand Prix debut in Bahrain, where the Mexican will be entrusted with Sergio Perez's VJM09 in FP1.

The news was announced by Vijay Mallya's outfit through its social media Twitter account.

The 19-year-old, whose credentials include racing in GP3 and Formula Reanult 3.5, ran extensively for Force India in pre-season testing in Barcelona, acquitting himself actually quite well.

As part of the deal with Force India, Celis has been awarded seven practice sessions in 2016

The decision is a little surprising given Perez' status, both within the team and within Formula 1's ranks itself, but may likely be linked to the young Mexican's financial backing.

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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.