Race and classic pictures

A field of Le Mans contenders ready to roll!

Le Mans is gearing up for its 86th edition, with its traditional pre-race Test Day taking place today at the legendary Circuit de la Sarthe.

Yesterday, the 2018 field of 60 contenders was assembled for the very first time before everyone gets an opportunity on Sunday to test their cars, drivers and systems.

The Test Day is mandatory for all entrants, and most particularly for drivers who have never raced before in the 24 Hours of Le Mans or who are not on the official List of Exempted Drivers – including Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button!

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.