When a couple of Austrian hopefuls made it to the big time

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Helmut Marko and Niki Lauda's close friendship went a long way back. All the way back to 1969 actually, when, as a couple of young Austrian hopefuls, they raced against each other in Formula V.

Two years later, they both made their F1 debut at the 1971 Austrian Grand Prix at Zeltweg.

Lauda's passing last year dealt a big personal blow to Red Bull's motorsport boss, and there's no doubt the void is still being felt this weekend in Austria for Helmut Marko.

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.