Mercedes reveal 2017 launch date

©WRI2

40

Mercedes has revealed that it will pull back the veil on its 2017 challenger -dubbed the W08 - on February 23rd at Silverstone, just a day before Ferrari's own launch.

There's still some uncertainty surrounding the team which has conquered the world championship in the past three years.

It remains to be seen if the W08 which was designed to the new 2017 regulations will maintain its edge over its rivals.

Top 10 F1 cars driven by Michael Schumacher

While everyone is hoping that someone will finally give Mercedes a run for its money, it's widely expected that given the outfit's resources and talent it will once again live up to expectations.

The other unknown remains the identity of Lewis Hamilton's team mate following the retirement of world champion Nico Rosberg.

But all signals point to Valtteri Bottas joining the Brackley squad, with an announcement expected any day now.

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

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.