Albon enjoys home pitstop in Bangkok

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On his way to Singapore, Aston Martin Red Bull Racing's Alex Albon made a pitstop in Bangkok on Tuesday to meet Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

The British-Thai racer was received with full honours at Bangkok's Government House and donated a signed race suit to his country's PM who vowed to drum up support for the F1 charger.

"I hope that one day I will carry a Thai flag to the podium when I receive one of the three [F1] prizes on behalf of Thai people," said the 23-year-old.

With a bit of luck that achievement may well come at Marina Bay this weekend for the F1 rookie, given Red Bull's strong expectations.

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.