A crushing win for an empowering message

40

Head bowed and right fist raised high, Lewis Hamilton struck a forceful pose on the Styrian Grand Prix podium on Sunday.

The reigning world champion's posture celebrated his 85th career win in F1 but more importantly for Hamilton the stance was meant to deliver a message to the sport's community not to ease up on its fight against racism.

On Sunday, Hamilton and most of his colleagues took a knee once again on the grid of the Styrian Grand Prix. But several drivers questioned whether the practice should continue. The Mercedes driver isn't about to let up.

"I just had to (tell) them that racism is going to be here for probably longer than our time here," the Briton said after Sunday's race.

"People of color who are subject to racism don't have time to (just) ‘take a moment’ to protest and that be it. We've got to continue to push for equality and raise awareness for it.

"Personally it’s going to be a lifelong thing for me."

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.