Race and classic pictures

Fernando Alonso visits his favourite F1 breeding ground

Between McLaren, Toyota and various other commitments, Fernando Alonso has a full plate on his hands this year but the Spaniard always has time for a visit to his favourite breeding ground.

The FA Karting School in Llanera often sees the mentor gather with his mentees for a day of training and grooming.

In Shanghai last week, Alonso announced that his karting academy will be expanding into China in the future in a very big way as 40 dedicated karting tracks are planned to be built in the country in the next five years!

The project is destined to fuel the motorsport passion of China's younger generation, and support the efforts to one day bring a burgeoning talent into Formula 1.

"Passion for motorsport, education, and dreams are on their way," said Alonso.

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.