An emotional send-off from the F1 family

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A dark cloud of sadness has hovered over Melbourne since Thursday, when the news broke that F1 race director Charlie Whiting had unexpectedly passed away.

Charlie was a consummate professional, he was everything a race director should be: experienced, knowledgeable and approachable. But above all, he was an impassioned fan of Formula 1.

His passing will leave a massive void in the sport.

On Sunday morning, the F1 family gathered on the grid at Albert Park for an emotional send-off.

So long Charlie!

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.