Alex Lynn signed as DS Virgin reserve driver

Former GP3 and Williams test driver Alex Lynn is steering his career towards Formula E, and has been signed-up as reserve driver for DS Virgin Racing.

Lynn's Formula 1 future appeared to hit a roadblock with no options available for 2017 despite acquitting himself well in the past as Williams' test driver.

The 23-year-old Brit missed out on an FE involvement with Jaguar Panasonic Racing, but says he is delighted to have signed amulti-year deal with DS Virgin.

"Formula E is arguably the most competitive motor racing championship in the world, with the highest calibre of drivers.

"As a driver I want to be competing in the top series, which is why I’ve been trying so hard to get into Formula E, and ‘DS Virgin was my first choice.

"So I’m delighted to have signed a multi-year deal with DS Virgin Racing!"

Lynn insisted his test drive with Jaguar at the end of 2016 was instrumental in securing a role with his new team.

"What I did at Donington was quite a big thing for Alex Tai [DS Virgin Racing boss] and the guys at DS Virgin, as well as the single-seater stuff I’ve done in the past," he told Autosport.

"A big question is, ‘Can you do it in the real car?’ and the opportunity at Donington was a great chance for me to show that.

"I’d really like to thank Alex for the chance to be with this team – I’m going to be giving it my all.”

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Several calendar clashes between Formula E and the WEC will have Lynn on the look-out for an opportunity to eventually deputise for either Sam Bird or Jose Maria Lopez.

DS Virgin’s Team Principal Alex Tai said he was equally happy with his new recruit.

"I’m delighted we have acquired a driver of the calibre and potential of Alex Lynn," said Tai.

"It is a testament to the strength of Formula E that we’re now attracting drivers like Alex and it speaks volumes that Alex has chosen DS Virgin Racing as his team.

"We’re excited to see what he’s capable of in our car."

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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.