Kvyat still 'friends' with Marko and Horner

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Daniil Kvyat's future in Formula 1 has yet to be secured with Toro Rosso appearing to be in no rush to confirm the Russian's presence in its team next season.

The 22-year-old, who was demoted from Red Bull to Toro Rosso after his home race in Russia has only scored one championship point - in Spain - since his return to the junior squad which saw him debut in F1 in 2014.

Rumors have remerged that Renault may perhaps be interested in hiring Kvyat but presently, the Russian can offer to clarity on his 2017 plans.

"At the moment I have nothing in this area to report," he told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

"But everyone talks to one another. My phone is always on," said Kvyat.

Despite his recent 'downsizing' by Red Bull, Kvyat insists his relationship with his employer remains good and that he alone will decide on his future.

"I'm still friends with Helmut Marko and Christian Horner, although things are somewhat different.

"I have people around me who can help me, for the details. But my phone is mine and I can make my own decisions.

For now, Kvyat says he is absolutely determined to perform to the best of his ability in the 13 races hwoich remain on the 2016 calendar.

"There are some real classics coming up where it will become clear how good we really are. I don't call it a deadline but it's an important point."

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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.