Categories: Look backRace and classic pictures

Starting the year with a green Matra

©DR

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©DR

In 1968, Jackie Stewart kicked off his season behind the wheel of an interim F2-chassis based Matra MS9 at the 1968 South African GP. The Tyrrell-run, Caltex sponsored MS9 started third and Stewart actually lead briefly before dropping out with an engine failure. Oddly, there was a four-month gap until the second race of the season at Jarama in Spain, where the Matra, with Jean-Pierre Beltoise driving, would revert to its French-blue livery thanks to support from Elf.

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.