Formula 1's very first World Champion crowned at home

Italy's Giuseppe Farina won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on this day in 1950, the Alfa Romeo driver also clinching Formula 1's very first world championship.

Farina triumphed after fending off an early challenge from Ferrari's Alberto Ascari before the Scuderia driver's efforts were thwarted by an engine issue.

Farina's title, achieved with a 3 point advantage over Fangio, marked the only time in F1 history when a driver won the world championship by triumphing in his home race.

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.