Race and classic pictures

You may now call him 'Commander' Gordon Murray!

Legendary automotive designer Gordon Murray - the creative mind behind so many winning Brabham and McLaren F1 cars - was made a Commander of the British Empire on Thursday by The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William.

The ceremony which took place at Buckingham Palace recognized the contributions made by Murray to motorsport and the automotive industry in the past 50 years.

"Receiving a CBE from Prince William is one of the highlights of my life – right up there with Formula One World Championship wins or creating the world’s fastest production car," said the 72-year-old designer who indeed also penned the iconic McLaren F1 road car.

"The Gordon Murray Group is about to embark on an exciting new chapter, with ground-breaking innovation once again driving our growth.

"Energised by this accolade I can’t wait to continue the journey, supported by a dedicated and hugely talented team."

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.