Race and classic pictures

Guess who's coming to dinner?

An all-star line-up of petrol heads gathered for a quiet dinner evening in Kitzbuhel this weekend, with one exclusive guest - or was he the host? - likely garnering the assembly's attention.

We won't belittle our F1i readers by citing names you all already know. There is however one important question that comes to mind when looking at this distinguished crew.

Who picked up the tab?

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.