Formula 1 not on BMW's agenda

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BMW has absolutely no plans to return to Grand Prix racing anytime soon despite the sport's being re-energized by Liberty Media's involvement.

McLaren Automotive's announcement last week of a collaboration with BMW for its road cars led to a bit of fantasy speculation that the German manufacturer was perhaps setting itself up for a return to Formula 1.

Nothing could be further from the truth however, and the Bavarian manufacturer which competed in F1 as a works team from 2006 to 2009, was quick to dispel any rumors.

"When we decided to pull out of Formula 1 in 2009 it was a long-term strategic decision of the company," BMW told Autosport in a statement.

"We wanted to put some of the F1 resources into the research and development of alternative powertrain solutions - and so BMW did.

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"We established ourselves as the leading premium car manufacturer in the field of electric mobility.

"We are watching the developments in the world of motorsport, but currently we have no plans to re-enter Formula 1."

BMW is however weighing an entry in the burgeoning Formula E series in which it currently enjoys a partnership with US outfit Andretti Formula E.

With Ford also specifying last week that it had no intention of getting involved in Formula 1 in the near future, the sport is definitely not appealing to manufacturers, at least in its current state of affairs.

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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.