Nilsson guns to his only Grand Prix victory

Gunnar Nilsson and Lotus emerged the winners of a rain-soaked Belgian Grand Prix run at Zolder on this day in 1977.

The Swede crucially gained an upper hand thanks to a well-timed early pit stop while others failed to read the changing conditions. From 13th Nilsson batted his way to the front, taking command of the 70-lap race on lap 50 to lead home Niki Lauda's Ferrari and Ronnie Peterson's Tyrrell.

Sadly, Zolder was Gunnar Nilsson's single F1 win. Later that year, he was later diagnosed with cancer, ultimately losing his battle against the illness in 1978.

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.