Race and classic pictures

Back in the days when McLaren supplied the beer

In 1978, McLaren ran its pair of M26s at the US and Canadian Grands Prix in a one-off, elegant blue livery for both James Hunt and Patrick Tambay.

Back then, McLaren sponsor Philip Morris owned the Miller Brewery company which was in the process of rolling out its Löwenbräu beer brand, which justified its marketing initiative for F1's North American rounds.

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

Alonso calls out Japanese GP snooze fest: 'Just like Monaco'

Fernando Alonso finished just outside the points in last weekend's Japanese Grand Prix but offered…

28 mins ago

Mercedes hands Vesti FP1 session at Bahrain GP

Mercedes reserve Fred Vesti will be in action on Friday in Bahrain, the Dane taking…

2 hours ago

Verstappen's jab: 'In a McLaren, you wouldn’t have even seen me'

Max Verstappen enjoyed a dominant win at Suzuka but couldn’t resist poking fun at the…

3 hours ago

Stella: Verstappen title bid ‘very difficult’ without RB21 advances

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella praised Max Verstappen’s exceptional performance at the Japanese Grand Prix,…

19 hours ago

Bearman: Suzuka point justified, but Haas ‘not there yet on merit’

Haas rookie Oliver Bearman scored in the Japanese Grand Prix his second consecutive top-ten finish…

20 hours ago

Happy Hadjar hails ‘perfect race’ at Suzuka and first points

Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar earned the first championship points of his fledgling F1 career…

22 hours ago