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Mateschitz wants more races like Austria

Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz believes Formula 1 would enjoy a healthy boost if there were more races like last Sunday's Austrian Grand Prix.

The 72-year-old Austrian business magnate, whose comments in the media are few and far between, was asked about the success of the race and attendance figures registered at the Red Bull Ring which his company owns.

"We know already that F1 is not exactly booming," he told Speedweek.

" But we would only need more races like this one and it would change quickly. If Ferrari and ourselves are able to put Mercedes under even more pressure, then the interest will rise again."

Red Bull Racing's performance this season is light-years ahead of last season's dismal campaign, with progress on the engine front made by partner Renault evidently the main factor in elevating the Milton Keynes outfit's results.

"We are absolutely satisfied with the progress of our engine partner," underlined Matescitz.

"The change in management was crucial. There are once again racers at work, bringing the necessary commitment and passion. That's why we extended the contract until 2018, but already for 2017 it is looking good."

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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.