Lauda's blood pressure back down to normal

Mercedes AMG F1 non-executive chairman Niki Lauda admits that he feels a lot better now that the conundrum linked to replacing Nico Rosberg has been solved.

A few weeks ago, Lauda said the situation was 'very complicated' as Rosberg's shock decision had left Mercedes hanging dry, which in turn had angered the F1 legend.

Lauda: Bottas will be just as fast as Rosberg

But Bottas signing has relieved the tension as the team gets back to business as usual.

"My tension, which had resulted from the withdrawal of Nico, has completely disappeared," Lauda told the German broadcaster RTL. "Bottas is the best man for the job."

Whime many were at a loss to explain why the German manufacturer had not simply promoted Mercedes protege Pascal Wehrlein to the plum race seat, Lauda pointed to experience as the main reason.

"Experience and speed were the reasons we signed Bottas. I believe he can drive as fast as Nico. I believe he can win the world championship."

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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.