Smedley position at Williams yet to be finalised

©WRI2

The position of Rob Smedley, Williams' current head of vehicle performance, is still under review and Claire Williams didn't offer much detail about any eventual changes which may impact the engineer's job description.

Smedley expressed a while back his desire to take a step back from F1, suggesting a potential reduction in his presence at the races.

Speaking to Autosport, deputy team principal Claire Williams remained evasive on the performance chief's prospects.

"Whether he's at the track or whether he's at Grove then he will still make a big contribution," Williams said.

"With all our personnel we have to decide where their technical ability is best placed, and that's not from a negative perspective.

"Someone like Rob, he wants to progress and he wants to do more. Sometimes that's not necessarily at the track, that could be back at the factory in a bigger role so we'll wait and see."

Williams endured a challenging 2016 season, with the team falling short of its objectives. Yet Claire Williams underscored the importance of Smedley's contribution.

"He's a really important part of this team. Not only is he really strong technically, but he's also a very passionate person and that's one of the things that I love about him and what this team needs.

"This team needs people who understand that winning takes sacrifices, making so many sacrifices and putting in every single bit of blood, sweat and tears you have in your body to win.

"People like Rob have that. That is the DNA that runs through Rob Smedley and I don't want to lose him."

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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.