McLaren turned down Pirelli test opportunity

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Given the workload associated with its attempts to extract itself from the doldrums, McLaren-Honda rejected Pirelli's offer to test 2017 tyres.

The Italian company, which extended earlier this year its supply contract with F1 to 2019, had requested that teams provide a modified 2015 'mule' car to test its wider 2017 tyres.

While Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull Racing accepted the proposal, McLaren declined on the basis of cost and its heavy workload.

"You have to take stock of yourself about the cost and effort it would take to bring a test car in readiness," said McLaren racing director Eric Boullier.

"We drew the conclusion that it was better for us not to participate. Of course you can learn a thing on that tyre, but all data is shared with the teams who do not test.

"We are not where we want to be and would rather concentrate on ourselves and on speeding up our car."

Pirelli has said that it is confident that teams taking part in the 2017 tests will gain little advantage from the program, and that measures have been put in place to ensure every team receives the same information.

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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.