Briatore snatches Schumacher, sets F1 on fire

©WRI2

On this day in 1991, Michael Schumacher lined up on the Italian Grand Prix grid with Benetton for the second F1 race of his career.

Between Spa, where Schumacher had enjoyed his maiden Grand Prix two weeks earlier with Jordan, and Monza, Benetton's Flavio Briatore had gone to work behind the scenes to mischievously secure the services of the promising young German driver.

The Italian manager simply scrapped Schumacher's deal with Jordan and then proceeded to do the same with one of his own drivers, Roberto Moreno. Threats of litigation ensued but Briatore had the final word while Jordan was clearly left holding the bag.

As for Michael Schumacher, he continued to set F1 on fire by outqualifying team mate Nelson Piquet, and then out-running the Brazilian on Sunday, clinching a P5 finish and his first championship points.

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.