Schumacher to join Mercedes

40

According to German newspaper Die Express, Mick Scumacher will soon be joining the junior ranks of Mercedes.

The son of F1 legend Michael Schumacher has been honing his skills in Formula 4, finishing second in both the Italian and German championship this year.

It is anticipated that the 17-year-old will be stepping up into Formula 3 in 2017 and will contest the European series with top squad Prema Powerteam, although Schumacher's precise programme has yet to be confirmed.

Interestingly, Mick Schumacher was pictured in a Mercedes jacket during Nico Rosberg's victory parade at the German manufacturer's Sindelfingen factory.

The sighting has led many to believe that it is only a matter of days, or weeks, until the young hopeful is confirmed as a Mercedes Junior.

Mercedes: The candidates to replace Rosberg

From the cockpit: Felipe Nasr on his second set in F1

F1i Classic - Bowing out on a high

Silbermann says... Respect to Rosberg

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.