United Colors of Benetton... and Pirelli!

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In today's Formula 1, the discernible sidewall colours of Pirelli's tyres identify the manufacturer's specific compound on race weekends.

However, back in 1986, when the Italian company supplied Benetton with its products, the only reason it lavishly painted its tyres was to add to the Italian outfit's multi-colored visual appeal.

We'll admit we prefer the more discrete markings of today than those seen here on Gerhard Berger's Benetton-BMW 186 at the Detroit Grand Prix.

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.