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Berger declines DTM executive role

Former F1 driver Gerhard Berger was apparently approached for an executive role with the German DTM series, but declined the offer on the basis of his current business commitments.

Three members of the ITR, the series' organising body, have allegedly stood down and Berger was offered to joining the remain fourth member, Florian Zitzlsperger, on the board.

"They asked me what I am doing and if I would be interested, but I said at the moment I'm not sure if I would like to enter some adventure - there's nothing really concrete," the Austrian told Autosport.

"It's far from a decision - I know there would be a possibility but I have so many things on my desk that I don't know where to start first!"

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The DTM will be reaching a potential crossroads this season with the field reduced from 24 to 18 cars, and some calling into question its future and prosperity.

Berger is currently in the camp of those who are on the sidelines waiting to see if the DTM can recover its past luster.

"I think it's a good platform," Berger added, "especially because it has existed for such a long time. It's normal in motorsport that things are sometimes stronger, sometimes weaker.

"But the DTM cars are spectacular, and of course my nephew [Lucas Auer] races there with Mercedes and it's a good combination with Formula 3 [at the same events].

"It has three strong manufacturers and it would be nice to see it going on for a long time to come."

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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.