Texas Dan roots for the Longhorns!

The US Grand Prix in Austin is one of Daniel Ricciardo's favourite venues and one where he typically dedicates his helmet design to a specific Texas theme.

This year, the Aussie will pay tribute to the Longhorns, the college football team representing the University of Texas in Austin, with a livery that resembles the Horns' helmet.

"The long and short of it is: I love Austin. The first year we visited here, I fell in love with the place, the people and the atmosphere. It speaks my language!" explained the Renault stalwart.

"Last year, I finally went to a Texas Longhorns game and it was an awesome experience, so I thought this year I'd tip my hat to them.

"I normally try and do something Austin themed here and I thought the Longhorns was a cool one with the idea to do a Football helmet; it's pretty special and I'd like to show some love to the city!"

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.