A final farewell to Anthoine Hubert

©AFP

The family and friends of Anthoine Hubert, as well as members of the motorsport community came together on Tuesday to bid a final farewell to the 22-year-old French driver who lost his life at Spa during the Belgian GP weekend.

The poignant send-off took place at Chartres in a Cathedral filled with flowers and where a selection of Anthoine's helmets were laid onto the chairs ahead of the ceremony.

Four-time F1 world champion Alain Prost delivered a heartfelt tribute to the Renault Sport Academy member, flanked by Anthoine's father François and the young driver's girlfriend Julie.

Many of the racer's past rivals were also present at Chartres, as well as close friends Pierre Gasly and Charles Leclerc, Jean and Giuliano Alesi, and Mick Schumacher.

The top level of motorsport was also present to honour Anthoine Hubert's memory, led by FIA Presdient Jean Todt and Formula One's Chase Carey and Sean Bratches.

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.