McLaren will pursue development of 2016 car

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McLaren racing director Eric Boullier says that despite the team's head start on its 2017 challenger, it will continue to update its current MP4-31 from Spa onward.

The Woking-based outfit has produced a huge effort this season in its bid to restore its former luster, updating its package as frequently as possible on both the chassis and power unit front.

McLaren will continue its push for improvement after the summer break, according to Boullier.

"There will still be some car developments after the shutdown," said the Frenchman.

"Every development we are doing is obviously applicable to next year's car, so we focus on this and on next year's car."

Its engine partner Honda won't be languishing either and is fully intended on making the most of its remaining development tokens in the second part of the season, although its focus on 2017 has already been initiated.

"We will not give up with this year," said F1 engine chief Yusuke Hasegawa.

"But we have to start work on 2017, so when we have to change our resources to 2017 is a very difficult decision."

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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.