It's a 31-gun salute to the Hulk!

Invariably, whenever one thinks of Nico Hulkenberg, a remarkable but unenviable record comes to the fore: the most Grand Prix starts without achieving a podium.

It hasn't been for a lack of trying for the 31-year old who celebrates his birthday on this day, but he just hasn't been able to break his duck.

In 2012, the German driver - then with Force India - came close to a third-place finish at Spa, ending the race P4 just a handful of second behind Kimi Raikkonen.

One can only hope he can go one better next weekend when F1 returns to business at the Ardennes track.

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.