Categories: Look backRace and classic pictures

Remembering Schumacher's stage entrance, 34 years on

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For many, he was just a young hopeful awarded a lucky F1 break, but for insiders Michael Schumacher was perceived as the real deal from the outset when he made his debut at Spa in 1991.

While his chance to race with Jordan at the Belgian GP was indeed the result of fortunate circumstances, Schumacher made the most of the opportunity, clinching a sensational seventh place in qualifying, outshining his experienced team mate Andrea de Cesaris by 0.774 seconds.

The race, which took place 34 years ago today, saw the young gun sidelined after just a few hundred yards, the victim of a clutch failure.

It was of no importance however. In the eyes of those that mattered the future seven-time world champion had done enough to confirm that a star had been born.

Michael Schumacher's incredible destiny was irreversibly set in motion.

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.