Race and classic pictures

A heavy heart weighs down the Andretti family

The Andretti family, racing's greatest dynasty, is mourning the loss of former IndyCar and NASCAR driver John Andretti who has died at the age of 56.

A fighter on the race track, regardless of the category that he tackled over the course of his distinguished career, the nephew of F1 world champion Mario Andretti lost his brave fight against cancer.

John Andretti made 49 straight IndyCar starts from 1990 through 1992 and competed in NASCAR from 1994 to 2003.

The versatility of John's talent allowed him to race competitively in anything that had four wheels, including , single-seaters, Midgets, sportscars and stockcars.

He even indulged in a blast down the odd NHRA drag strip in 1993, reaching the Top Fuel semi-finals in his first national event!

Andretti is survived by his wife, Nancy, and children Jarett, Olivia and Amelia. Jarett Andretti has followed his father’s path in the fast lane and drives in sprint cars, sports cars and Indy Lights.

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.