Ascari wins but tragedy mars inaugural Argentine GP

40

Scuderia Ferrari's Alberto Ascari won Formula 1's inaugural Argentine Grand Prix, an event marred in tragedy on this day in 1953.

The race was F1's first flyaway F1 race and a milestone close to the heart of Argentina's president Juan Peron who had urged the country's national automobile club to set up the event to showcase his proud regime as well as the local talent.

Peron awarded the public with free access to race day, an ill-fated decision which saw the over-sized crowd line the track as the cars set off for their grueling three-hour race.

On lap 31, some poor sole sought a better vantage point, crossing the track right in the path of Farina's Ferrari appeared and forcing its stunned driver to take avoiding action. Alas, Farina lost control and crashed into the crowd, killing ten spectators.

As commotion and chaos ensued, Ascari pressed on while Peron quietly departed the venue.

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.