It was love at first sight for Andretti and Ferrari

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When Enzo Ferrari asked Mario Andretti to join the Scuderia in 1971, it was a bit of a homecoming for the Italian-born American driver.

As a young tifosi in the early 50s mesmerized by Ferrari's feats and the exploits of his favourite driver, the great Alberto Ascari, the motorsport legend could only dream of saddling one day a prancing horse.

Ferrari and Andretti came together for the very first time on this day in 1971, at the South African Grand Prix at Kyalami.

It was a stunning debut, a match made in heaven, helped by the equally ravishing 312B that brought Super Mario his maiden Grand Prix win.

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.