Race and classic pictures

Hamilton gets high before falling to earth!

From the mighty waves of the Pacific to the wild blue yonder above it, Lewis Hamilton continued his adrenaline-driven, thrill-seeking journey this week.

They say that any idiot can fly a plane, but it takes a special kind of idiot to jump out of one.

The five-time world champion would likely disagree, arguing that it's all about the quest for freedom as he alluded to when he posted this picture of himself on Instagram.

"Got my skydiving license ✔️ the feeling of free fall is incredible. Surfing and skydiving in the same day is the ultimate day for me. Have you skydived yet? If not, put the fear aside and go 💪🏾 #freedom"

Putting "the fear aside" is likely not something Mercedes boss Toto Wolff will do easily when he starts sifting through Ham's contract after seeing this picture…

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.