Albert receives a gift from a fellow Monaco prince

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Charles Leclerc is very much the talk of the town right now, the tiny Principality of Monaco proud to have one of its own on the F1 grid for the first time since Oliver Beretta in 1994.

The 20-year-old Monegasque's rise to prominence has been impressive, and Prince Albert of Monaco has taken a keen interest in his fellow countryman's career.

The local hero was invited to the official residence of the Prince this week but didn't show up empty handed, gifting one of his helmets to a delighted Prince Albert.

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.