Honda gives Max his first taste of old school F1

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Ahead of this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix, Max Verstappen was offered an opportunity to sample a bit of Honda's glorious heritage.

The Red Bull Racing driver was entrusted with Honda's RA272, a car that delivered to the Japanese manufacturer its first F1 win, achieved in Mexico in 1965 thanks to Richie Ginther. And it was a first for Verstappen.

"It was the first time that I was driving a real old-school racing car," said the Dutchman.

"I think the oldest race car I've driven before today was from about 2008. It's quite different, but I really enjoyed it.

"The pure emotion from the engine and the car itself was incredible. I didn't even fit properly in the car! But it was an amazing experience for sure."

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.