Albon and Russell karting their way into the pre-season

Preparations are in full swing for F1's drivers, with everyone sweating it out in the gym and beefing up their bodies for 2020.

But there's nothing like a bit of back-to-basics racing to help get back into the swing of things.

Last year's F1 rookies Alex Albon and George Russell did just that when they buzzed around the South Garda Karting track in Lonato, Italy, reviving the rivalry the pair enjoyed in their early teenage years.

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.