Race and classic pictures

Happy '30' to Marcus Ericsson

Race fans, spare a thought today for Marcus Ericsson, the man for whom the careless Romain Grosjean coined the now famous phrase "I think Ericsson hit us".

The personable Swede, who turns 30 on this day, spent the better part of his career in F1 among the backmarkers, but rarely got in anybody's way, contrary to Grosjean's imaginary claim.

He raced competently, often in difficult circumstances, and pulled off the odd remarkable performance now and then, scoring a total of 18 championship points over his 97-Grands Prix career in F1.

Marcus' transition in 2019 to IndyCar, where he currently drives the #8 entry of Chip Ganassi Racing, has provided a second life to his single-seater ambitions.

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.