Montezemolo was expecting more from Ferrari

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Since his forced departure from Ferrari in 2014, former CEO Luca di Montezemolo has remained a keen observer of the Scuderia's development and results.

While the 68-year-old Italian believes the team's progress last season had aactually been kickstarted under his own tenure, Montezemolo is surprised by Ferrari's current lack of wins.

"I know what we made in 2014 to improve," he said.

"The progress of last year was a product of the work the year before. But to be honest I expected a bigger step this year from last year with, after five races, not winning even one. But it is a long way to go."

The non-executive Chairman of airline carrier Alitalia also addressed the topic of Mercedes' dominance, believing the German manufacturer's supremacy is a result of a lack of competition.

"Ferrari was very strong (previously), but Renault was very strong too. McLaren was strong. Williams was strong.

"Today, between Mercedes and Ferrari there is a gap, and between Ferrari and the other teams there is another gap," added Montezemolo.

"So despite a fantastic job from Mercedes, there is now less potential competition."

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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.