When Paul Ricard enjoyed its F1 baptism of fire

©WRI

After establishing itself in the past at Reims, Rouen and Clermont-Ferrand, the French Grand Prix moved to the Circuit Paul Ricard in July 1971.

Built and financed by eponymous pastis magnate Paul Ricard, the new-generation's innovative facility offered the most advanced safety features ever seen in motorsport and an impressive pit complex that set the standard for future venues.

The circuit's infrastructure, multiple layouts and mild weather instantly made 'Le Castellet' a popular destination among racing teams for testing during the off-season.

As for the track's inaugural F1 race, the 1971 French Grand Prix was a one-man show, with Tyrrell's Jackie Stewart rocketing off the grid from pole, never to be caught, the great Scot capturing his fifteenth 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.