Fernando Alonso: Formula 1's timeless speedster

©WRI

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©WRI

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso turns 44 today, a milestone that further reinforces the Spaniard's status as the F1 grid's senior citizen.

But after 414 Grand Prix starts, 32 wins and two world championships - the latter achieved with Renault in 2005 and 2006 - the forever-young Alonso continues to power on and to give it "200 per cent" every other Sunday.

Alonso started his career in Formula 1 with Minardi back in 2001, having raced the year before in F3000.

The then 19-year-old - driving for Team Astromega - didn't win the championship that season, but he did score a victory at the last round at Spa, where he is seen in the picture hereabove brandishing the winner's gleaming trophy.

Go Nando!

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.