A big heart in a kart, and ready to start!

This fierce looking young karter made his way to the pinnacle of motorsport and celebrates his 29th birthday today.

Sergio Perez followed the typical path to Grand Prix racing, successfully competing in the lower echelons of the sport before reaching F1 in 2011 with Sauber.

The Mexican enters his fifth season with Force India and, by his own admittance, sees an important year ahead and one which he hopes will propel him to the next level.

Time will tell...

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.