Russell tames 'the beast' on the Nordschleife

George Russell took some time out from his Eifel GP schedule on Thursday to explore and experience motorsport's most feared and revered circuit: the Nürburgring's Nordschleife.

The Williams charger and Mercedes protégé set out on his thrilling discovery of the Eifel's historic and daunting 'Green Hell' onboard a green beast, or a 730bhp untamed Mercedes-AMG GT.

From Flugplatz to Pflanzgarten and through the Karussell, it was 20.8km of riveting excitement for Russell who conveyed his frenzy on social media.

"The Nordschleife was INSANE!!," wrote the Briton, adding, "F1 can we race there please?"

Not a chance in Green Hell, George. Alas.

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.