A salute to the man that made it happen for Hamilton

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As one of Formula 1's all-time greats, there's no disputing Lewis Hamilton's outstanding talent.

But the Briton's skills as a young karter could have just as well gone unexplored without the savvy insight and support of former McLaren chief Ron Dennis.

McLaren and Mercedes mentored Hamilton during his formative years in the sport, eventually handing him an F1 drive in 2007 that almost resulted in a world title for the rookie.

Twelve years on from his F1 debut, after clinching his sixth crown last weekend in Austin, Hamilton paid tribute to the man who made it all happen for him in the beginning.

"I got a text from Ron and I just want to send my love and thank you for spotting me when I was 10 years old and believing in me," said Hamilton after his coronation in Austin.

"Without Ron noticing me at the beginning, I probably wouldn't even be here."

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.