Monzanapolis - The Race of Two Worlds

©CahierArchive

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©CahierArchive

This great picture by Bernard Cahier takes us back sixty years ago, when the worlds of Grand Prix racing and Indy oval racing were pitted against each other at Monza in an amusing attempt to decide who the best drivers were.

They called it "Monzapolis", or "The Race of Two Worlds". There was no real contest however as Indy drivers proved that when it came to banked speedways, they were second to none.

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.