Jost Capito officially gone from McLaren

Just four months after starting work at McLaren, executive manager Jost Capito has left the Woking-based team.

The former Volkswagen boss of motorsport was rumored to be at odds with McLaren late last year, during a period of turbulence marked by the ousting of long-time chairman Ron Dennis following a bitter dispute with fellow McLaren shareholders.

Italy's Corriere della Sera has now confirmed that Capito has officially left McLaren.

"Regrettably, we have not been able to find common ground with Jost with regard to what is and will be needed to make the team successful again," said a McLaren spokesman.

"As a result, we have agreed that he will leave McLaren Racing and will now consider other opportunities. We wish him success in his future endeavours."

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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.