Marko denies Red Bull/Allison connection

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It emerged over the Japanese Grand Prix weekend that former Ferrari technical director James Allison could be tempted to join Red Bull Racing for 2017.

But Helmut Marko, the energy drink's motorsport boss, insisted that there was no truth to the rumors in an interview with German publication Auto Bild.

"This is utter nonsense," Marko said.

"We do not talk to him. We think he will probably go back to Enstone with Renault."

Speculation over Allison's future came about as a result of Red Bull allegedly seeking an additional design head should Adrian Newey's part-time employment persist with the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

Marko also addressed rumors associated with Toro Rosso head of tech James Key, who has been associated with a move to Williams in replacement of the soon-to-retire Pat Symonds.

Marko did not rule out Key's eventual departure from Toro Rosso, but Symonds however was adamant the report was gossip.

"I read that," Symonds commented at Suzuka.

"I was quite surprised actually. It reminded me of Mark Twain, who said 'rumours of my demise are greatly exaggerated'. I think I take the same view on my retirement."

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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.