The departing ace and the rising star swap helmets

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It's a well-known fact that Fernando Alonso is an avid helmet collector, having amassed over the years an impressive number of lids.

From his own helmets to those of his F1 colleagues and fellow racers, from all categories of motorsport, Alonso's vast collection can be seen at the museum in Llanera in Spain dedicated to the Spanish driver's career.

Alonso will be leaving F1 at the end of the season, but before his departure he recently did a helmet swap with Grand Prix racing's rising star and future Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc.

That’s one lid that may some day become the collection's most treasured possession...

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.