Lauda in a Ligier? Yes, it happened...

40

The circumstances surrounding Niki Lauda's test with Ligier in 1977 still remain cloudy, but the run did happen as this picture attests.

In 1977, Lauda was in his last season with Ferrari and in talks with Bernie Ecclestone for a move to Brabham, for which the great Austrian would eventually drive the following year.

Lauda tested Ligier's JS7 at Zandvoort at the end of the season, and perhaps it was just a way of winding up Mr. E before entering serious negotiations...

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.