A chase from behind in Detroit: Watson's greatest drive

Detroit, the automotive capital of the world, enjoyed its first Grand Prix on this day in 1982.

Formula 1's baptism of fire in 'Motor City' was a comedy of errors unfortunately.

When teams arrived - just a week after the Monaco Grand Prix - the street circuit was still in build-out mode, and practice was cancelled.

Eventually however, Detroit's inaugural event did produce John Watson's greatest drive in Formula 1.

The McLaren charger launched his race from a lowly P17 on the grid only to blitz the field and achieve a stunning win from Ligier's Eddie Cheever and Ferrari's Didier Pironi.

It was the Ulsterman's fourth and penultimate win in F1.

©TheCahierArchive

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.