Alfa Romeo's thwarted last appearance as a team in F1

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Sauber's rebranding as Alfa Romeo Racing reminds us that the last time the famous name raced on its own in F1 was back in 1985, but it was anything but a memorable year.

Its unreliable, heavy and thirsty 185T, seen here at Brands Hatch with Eddie Cheever behind the wheel, was never a contender, and actually led the manufacturer to pull out of F1 at the end of the season.

Let's hope for a more lasting presence of the legendary four leaf clover in Grand Prix racing.

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.