As kids chasing a dream, Jules Bianchi and Charles Leclerc spent countless hours together grinding around their local karting track.

Their families were close, so naturally so were the two outstanding young talents. Jules saw himself as Charles' older brother, often looking over his progress and lending him a helping hand whenever he saw fit. Ultimately, they both found their way to the pinnacle of motorsport.

Charles Leclerc will undoubtedly have his 'big brother' on his mind when he lines up on the grid in Melbourne next year for his grand entry into F1.

And wherever he happens to be, Jules will surely be watching...

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

The brutal mirror: Herbert’s no-filter advice for Lewis Hamilton

Few names in Formula 1 carry the same weight as Lewis Hamilton. Seven world titles.…

13 hours ago

Beltoise's one-off masterclass and 'Jour de Gloire'

One-time Grand Prix winner Jean-Pierre Beltoise was born on this day in 1937. The late…

15 hours ago

Rubber side up: Jos Verstappen’s Sunday somersault in Wallonia

Jos Verstappen’s efforts in this weekend’s  Rallye de Wallonie took a dramatic turn on Sunday…

16 hours ago

Mercedes ‘ticking all the boxes’ but Russell dismisses title hype

Three races into the 2026 season, and Kimi Antonelli and George Russell find themselves in…

17 hours ago

A grid of opportunity: BYD considers leap into Formula 1!

In Formula 1, whispers often travel faster than the cars themselves. And lately, one name…

18 hours ago

How Hadjar engineered his leap to ‘weird’ Red Bull seat

During his 2025 rookie season in F1, Isack Hadjar carried himself with a calm, almost…

19 hours ago