Race and classic pictures

The day Monaco's rain was Schumacher's gain

On this day in 1997, a wise tyre choice and outstanding skills enabled Ferrari's Michael Schumacher to drive circles around his rivals in Monaco.

The F1 legend was well-inspired to start his day of racing on full wets while rivals Mika Hakkinen and Damon Hill opted for the dry compound.

Schumacher predictably stormed off at the start, never to be seen again by his pursuers as he sidestepped the treacherous and wet conditions imposed on the field.

It was the German's first win of 1997, a season that would ultimately see him defeated by Williams' Jacques Villeneuve.

But that's a story and a picture for another day...

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.

Recent Posts

Steiner’s blunt verdict: ‘Lance Stroll doesn’t want to be an F1 driver’

Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner believes that Lance Stroll has no real interest in…

34 mins ago

A nod to Formula 1's first female driver

Maria Teresa de Filippis - motorsport's first female F1 Grand Prix driver - was born…

2 hours ago

Pulling leaves rivals chasing in all-female Formula E test

F1 Academy championship leader Abbi Pulling stole the show at Friday's all-female Formula E test…

3 hours ago

Wolff admits anger over Abu Dhabi 2021 ‘still goes with us’

Nearly three years after the dramatic conclusion of the 2021 Formula 1 season, Mercedes team…

4 hours ago

Krack on Aston’s difficult 2024 campaign: ‘It’s been our toughest’

As Aston Martin’s 2024 Formula 1 campaign nears its end, team principal Mike Krack offers…

5 hours ago

Fourth title 'will put Verstappen among all-time greats' - Horner

After Max Verstappen's brilliant victory in the wet in last week, the Dutch driver is…

6 hours ago