F1 News, Reports and Race Results

FOM green-lights advance payment to Force India

Force India will receive an early installment linked to its official F1 prize money, according to Auto, Motor und Sport's Michael Schmidt.

Force India had requested an advance payment to help with its typical winter budgetary constraints but with unanimous consent required by all F1 teams, the move had initially been vetoed by the Haas F1 Team. Schmidt reports that the impasse has now ended.

Haas had no particular issue involving Force India but used its veto as leverage following a request made to the FIA to reimburse the secured $20 million deposit the US outfit had put up over a year ago to guarantee its participation in the Formula 1 world championship.

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The FIA was scheduled to pay back the amount to Haas in full, plus interest, after a two year period. But with Haas' presence on the 2017 grid now guaranteed, it asked the governing body for an early pay-back.

Apparently the issue has been resolved to Haas' satisfaction, thus also clearing the path for Force India.

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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.