Race and classic pictures

Reviving those iconic black and gold colors

The unveiling of Haas' new VF-19 car on Thursday revived a familiar livery, last seen in its most elegant form back in 1986.

With the charismatic help of cigarette brand John Player Special - and many great drivers, Lotus' superbly elegant black and gold robe was elevated to legendary status by Colin Chapman's team between 1972 and 1986.

The boss of Haas sponsor Rich Energy admits that bringing back the refined scheme is no coincidence.

"I loved the JPS Lotus – I think it's the greatest livery of all time," said William Storey at the team's 2019 launch in London.

"You don't need to be Hercule Poirot to realise we're bringing that back. That's obviously quite fun and exciting to do."

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.