Renault looking to groom its own champion

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Renault F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says the French manufacturer is looking to develop its own champion, a driver with the potential to grow along with the Formula 1 outfit.

Referring to what Red Bull Racing accomplished with Sebastian Vettel in the past, Abiteboul believes the scheme can not only be emulated by Renault but it is also the most cost effective path towards success on the driver front.

"If there is a model, I would say we are more towards that model of maybe finding the Vettel of tomorrow, growing together, maybe become champion together," explained Abiteboul to Motorsport.com.

"Buying an existing world champion, I don't think this is an absolute necessity in modern F1."

"We may have the capability to build that future world champion driver together, so maybe he will be with us in 2017 and maybe we will be champion together in 2020."

Abiteboul stopped short from naming who may be part of Renault's 2017 driver line-up, as speculation continues to grow around several possible options which include Sergio Perez, Valtteri Bottas and current hopeful and reserve driver Esteban Ocon.

Regular drivers Kevin Magnussen and Jolyon Palmer are still under consideration but Abiteboul insists on the advantages of initiating a long-term relationship with a developing talent.

"It is a great strategy from a sporting perspective and from a marketing perspective but also a financial perspective.

"It is not secret that it costs far less to do that than to buy a star that is already well accomplished – even though it is a fantastic opportunity.

"We are not writing off any opportunity, frankly we have the financial capability to buy a star today, but I am not sure this is a wise move to make."

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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.