Rosberg retirement a big boost for Ricciardo's chances - Webber

Daniel Ricciardo's title chances have increased meaningfully with the retirement of world champion Nico Rosberg, according to former Red Bull stalwart Mark Webber.

Webber has always been a big fan of the man that succeeded him at the Milton Keynes-based outfit, tipping his countryman for the supreme title sooner rather than later.

"Daniel was probably the most consistent driver in the field this year and he's absolutely world class, in the top three drivers," Webber told The Age newspaper.

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Many are expecting Red Bull to make the most of the 2017 regulation change and banking on Adrian Newey's genius to pen once again a winning car. With Mercedes weakened by Rosberg's departure, in Webber's view, Ricciardo's chances appear considerably boosted.

"(Ricciardo) is in a position to go again next year and certainly vie for the championship if Red Bull can get the car together, because Nico is virtually impossible to replace in the short term at Mercedes.

"Nico and Lewis drove each other to be better, but now they won't have that all-star lineup. Lewis is brilliant and absolutely ruthless, but this will shake up the F1 market."

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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.