A fruitful F2 shakedown for birthday boy Russell

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F2 racer and Mercedes protégé George Russell enters his last year as a teenager today, but enjoyed an early birthday celebration with his first run in his new F2 car yesterday.

The F1 feeder series' teams and drivers got their first taste of F2's new Halo-equipped car and single-turbo engine at Magny Cours. Only one car per team was used and Russell was chosen to shake down ART Grand Prix's machine.

The F2 season is looking massively competitive with a long list of potential title winners, and the talented Mr. Russell, who won the GP3 championship in 2017, is surely among those capable of taking top honours.

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.