British GP's prospects boosted by F1 takeover - Warwick

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BRDC President Derek Warwick believes that Silverstone's chances of holding on to the British Grand Prix have been boosted by Liberty Media's takeover of F1.

With the future of the showcase event in limbo following speculation that the BRDC was considering activating a break clause in its contract with FOM due to spiraling costs associated with the race.

Derek Warwick believes however that the arrival of Liberty at the helm could be game changer for Silverstone.

"Monday definitely changed the face of 2017," Warwick said in an interview with Sky Sports News HQ.

"We know where we're going now with Liberty, we know where we're going with Silverstone. We are very positive we can now work this grand prix and make a profit in 2017. We're looking forward to 2017."

Carey : 'We will have a British Grand Prix!'

Despite the British GP's healthy attendance figures, Silverstone still struggled to turn a profit with the event due to very narrow margins and limited revenue streams. But that could be set to change, said Warwick.

"What he [Chase Carey] is saying to us is he might relax certain restrictions that Bernie has had on us over the last few years in terms of merchandising, marketing, sponsorship etcetera.

"We know for a fact there are some circuits out there that have more flexibility with their contract with Bernie [Ecclestone] than what we've got.

"So maybe they will join forces and make sure we can all use that expertise that other circuits have in order to make Silverstone more profitable."

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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.