Senna-Prost: The end of a cold war between F1's giants

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On this day in 1993, Ayrton Senna concluded his highly successful six-year association with McLaren by winning the season-ending Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide.

But it was another event that captured everyone's attention that day.

As Senna rejoiced on the top step of the podium, he pulled up Alain Prost's left hand in a celebratory gesture which was also a peace offering to his nemesis and arch-rival after several years of cold war.

It was a deciding step towards détente between the two great drivers, and the first towards a rapprochement which would be sealed in the following months.

Sadly, Adelaide would turn out to be Senna's final podium and triumph in Formula 1.

©McLaren

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.