Race and classic pictures

George Russell hits the road… to Melbourne

After the new year's festivities, Williams rookie George Russell has put himself in full preparation mode for his maiden season of Formula 1.

The young Brit has settled in Lanzarote where it is all work and no play as he winds up his body and mind.

Russell posted this picture on Twitter and wrote "The road to Melbourne begins... time to put in the miles 💪."

By our calculations, it’s a 17,795 km stretch from the Canary Islands to Albert Park. A switch into high gear is in order…

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.