A 34-candle salute to Haas' Romain Grosjean

©WRI

Romain Grosjean turns 34 today and the prominent resonance of the number in numerology is introspection, something the Haas driver has often relied upon during his tumultuous time in F1.

Grosjean, who was actually born and Geneva and holds a dual French-Swiss citizenship, made his F1 debut with Renault in 2009, at the European Grand Prix at Spa following Nelson Piquet Jr's dismissal from the French squad.

But Romain wouldn't enjoy a full-time ride in F1 until 2012, when he was recruited by Lotus after winning the 2011 GP2 Series title 'picture above).

Since then, he's put 164 races under his belt and achieved ten podium finishes.

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.