Race and classic pictures

From wrenching to the FIA, Charlie Whiting's sterling career

Charlie Whiting's sudden passing in Melbourne on this day five years ago shocked the F1 community and cast a dark shadow over the 2019 season-opening race.

As a man who placed the safety of F1 and its drivers at the forefront of his concerns, and as a natural confidant for many in the paddock - team managers and drivers alike - F1's resident race director is still sorely missed.

Many believe the outcome of of F1's season finale in Abu Dhabi in 2021, and therefore the championship, would have been quite different and void of controversy with Charlie at the helm.

Look back on his distinguished career in the sport, Whiting had lived the life of a mechanic with several teams, moving up the ranks to work for Brabham in the 80s.

There, along with genius designer Gordon Murray, he was Nelson Piquet's side-kick and most precious ally, with the trio celebrating two world championship titles together with Bernie Ecclestone's outfit.

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.