Race and classic pictures

Paul Ricard's proud owner casts her towering figure

Unbeknownst to many, the proud owner of the Circuit Paul Ricard is none other than Bernie Ecclestone's ex-wife Slavica Radic, who inherited the company which owns the track as a result of her divorce settlement with the former F1 supremo.

The 61-year-old former model and glamour girl takes a keen interest in her asset and popped in this weekend to tour the paddock and salute its notable residents.

Locals heroes Alain Prost and Jean Alesi appeared delighted to be shadowed by the ex-Mrs E's towering and elegant figure.

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.