Cevert's season-ending F1 first at the Glen

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François Cevert concluded the 1971 Formua 1 season by winning the US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen on this day 54 years ago, the charismatic Frenchman claiming his maiden triumph in F1.

It was a fine drive by Cevert who took the lead from Tyrrell team mate and mentor Jackie Stewart on lap 13 of the 59-lap race, and never looked back.

The well-deserved victory capped a year that was Cevert's first full season in F1 and during which the 27-year-old had made his mark with a string of podium finishes.

Sadly, it would be Cevert's only Grand Prix win, his promising future tragically cut short at the same venue two years later when he was killed in qualifying.

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.