Depailler upholds Ligier's momentum in Spain

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On this day in 1979, Patrick Depailler won the Spanish Grand Prix at Jarama for Ligier, adding a third victory to the French team's five-race tally as it dominated the opening part of the season.

It was the Frenchman's second career win in Formula 1, having achieved his maiden triumph in 1978 at Monaco with Tyrrell.

For all of Ligier's momentum at the time, the team failed to win another race after Spain, while the fearless Depailler put himself out of commission after Monaco when he severely injured his legs in a hand-gliding accident.

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.