A 6-year-old with a steely look of determination

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Pierre Gasly celebrates his 29th birthday today, the Frenchman heading into his eighth full season of Formula 1 and his second with Alpine.

When he got his first taste of karting as a mere six-year-old, the little "Gas Man" from Normandy was on it from the get-go and already displayed a remarkable skill.

The 2020 Italian Grand Prix winner's talent and race craft have certainly evolved over the years, along with his ambitions, but the look of steely determination in his eyes hasn't changed.

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.