The passing on August 23 of two great racers

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©TheCahierArchive

Their paths intertwined but as determined racers, Guy Ligier and Didier Pironi took very different routes to success in Formula 1.

The former hung up his helmet early on to blend his passion with his business acumen and set up his own team, while the latter applied his talent and fierce determination exclusively behind the wheel.

Success ensued for both, but tragedy remained anchored to Pironi's life.

Forced out of F1 after a horrific accident in 1982, the Frenchman put his skills to use in offshore powerboat racing. But this would lead to his tragic death on this day in 1987 in an event held off the shores of the Isle of Wight.

Guy Ligier's life was lived to the full, but coincidently he also died on this day, August 23, in 2015.

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.