Categories: Look backRace and classic pictures

Promising debutant

40

The great Colin Chapman gave Mansell his F1 break, kickstarting his career with Lotus in Austria in 1980. Mind you, it was a rather inauspicious start, with the Brit lining up last on the Zeltweg grid and retiring with engine problems. And Mansell would have to wait until his 13th season in Formula 1 before becoming a well-deserved champion.

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.