'No radical overhaul needed for F1,' says Todt

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FIA President Jean Todt is hopeful that Formula 1's new owners will bring the sport into the digital given their expertise, but refutes the need for a complete overhaul.

Discussions have kicked off on pretty much all fronts, sporting and commercial, since Liberty Media's takeover of Formula 1. And pundits are offering ideas, solutions, as well as their concerns and questions about the future of Grand Prix racing.

But while Todt believes improvements and changes shall be sought, a complete overaul is not necessary.

"I think Formula 1 is already great," Todt said , speaking at the SPOBIS convention in Dusseldorf.

"The sport must be unpredictable, and the title fight (in 2016) went to the last corner. I'm sure Liberty Media will give us different insights for other forms of communication that are likely to bring new fans to Formula 1."

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Todt did not agree with those that point to Mercedes dominance as proof that the sport must be changed.

"At the moment it is Mercedes," he said, "but before it was Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren and Williams, which also happens in other sports like athletics and football.

"So we should congratulate Mercedes for its successes and hope the others work even better now."

The Frenchman vowed patience with regard to judging F1's new technical regulations and their impact on the racing.

"Expectations are high, but we will have to wait for the first race."

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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.