Le Mans lines up contenders for 88th running

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The 88th running of the Le Mans 24 Hours was put in jeopardy by the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year, but organisers salvaged the endurance classic by re-scheduling the race from mid-June to this weekend.

The postponement reminded competitors, and race fans who unfortunately won't be allowed to attend the event, of the legendary race's sacrosanct status in motorsport.

This weekend, 59 cars and a total of 177 drivers spread across four categories will fight through thick and thin to achieve their objectives, be it an outright win or surviving the night to bring their car across the finish line come Sunday afternoon.

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.