Race and classic pictures

Monza banking: An eerie feeling of glory and tragedy

Every corner and stretch of Monza's tarmac has its own story to tell, but there's perhaps no other place that appeals to one's sense of history than the Temple of Speed's legendary banking.

Visiting the abandoned site is a pilgrimage, a journey down a portion of motorsport's rich memoir, where an eerie feeling of glory and tragedy quickly submerges the impassioned visitor.

Sitting on the dilapidated concrete and rusty remnant of a bygone era, one gazes at the ancient trees of Monza's park.

And if you listen closely, you can hear as they whisper their secrets from the past.

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.