Phil Hill - A trailblazer and America's first F1 world champion

©WRI2

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©WRI2

There's an old belief in motor racing that nice guys don't win world championships.

This may resonate as true in today's fiercely competitive and merciless world of sport, but half a century ago, well before the emergence of professionalism and big business in Formula 1, respect, solidarity and a sense of fraternity were relevant to a great champion's success.

Phil Hill - who was born on this day in 1927 - cherished and upheld those values throughout his entire career and life.

As a deeply sensitive man, he was often at odds with the perils of his profession and the inner turmoil they induced.

Yet racing was the leading means by which he best accomplished himself.

He was America's first Formula 1 World Champion, and as one of the greatest long-distance drivers of all time, he was also the first American born winner at Le Mans.

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.