Maiden F1 win and first championship heroes!

©TheCahierArchive

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©TheCahierArchive

The European Grand Prix held at Brands Hatch held on this day in 1985 was a milestone event for both Nigel Mansell and Alain Prost.

It was remembered as "the best day of my life" by the Briton who, driving for Williams and racing on home turf, conquered a massively popular first win in F1.

But the day was equally memorable for Prost who battled back from 14th to 4th to capture the first of his four world titles.

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.