BMW recreates Monza in the desert!

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This could very well be one day a view of Monza after the Apocalypse, a barren wasteland with nothing left but a desolate but recognizable layout.

In reality, the story behind this picture is one of an extraordinary adventure put together by BMW for the sole purpose of proving the off-road capabilities of the manufacturer's X5 SUV.

To do so, BMW moved heaven and earth in the Sahara Desert of Morocco to replicate a full-scale version of the legendary Italian track.

For two weeks, a team of 50 people undertook the massive task of surveying, measuring and outlining the course in the sand, faithfully recreating every corner, chicane, straight and sweep.

One question inevitably comes to mind. Was driving a plush X5 in anger on a sandy replica just as thrilling as racing around Monza's historic park? Perhaps not, but it was likely more comfortable!

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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.