Race and classic pictures

Rosberg and Mercedes finally crack it in Shanghai!

On this day in 2012 in Shanghai, Nico Rosberg captured his maiden win in Formula 1 while also delivering to Mercedes - with Ross Brawn at the helm - its first Grand Prix triumph since 1955.

The Chinese Grand Prix was a fairly straightforward affair for the 26-year-old German who, with the exception of the inevitable pit stop rotation period, led the field from lights to flag.

However, Rosberg would need to wait over 12 months before clinching his second career win in F1, with that feat occurring at his home race in Monaco

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.

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