Ferrari pays its respects to the American people

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Five days after the 9-11 terrorist attacks that had taken place in the US in 2001, Ferrari vowed to show its respect for the American people and the victims of the horrendous events that had taken place in New York and in Washington.

At its home race at Monza that took place on this day 25 years ago, the Scuderia took the decision to run the cars of Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello in a plain red livery, void of any logos or sponsorship, and with a black nose section marking its mourning.

As the world painfully came to grips with the tragic events that had unfolded, the race itself had at one point been in doubt.

Ultimately however, the FIA announced that the Italian Grand Prix would go ahead as scheduled.

It was won by Juan-Pablo Montoya for Williams in front of Barrichello and the Columbian's teammate Ralf Schumacher.

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.