Race and classic pictures

Hailing from Liechtenstein but trailing in F1

A who, what, where query on this picture would at first glance prompt a response placing Mike Hailwood in a Brabham in 1974 but that would be getting only part of the quiz right.

F1 connoisseurs will have indeed recognized a Brabham BT44 at the Belgian Grand Prix at Nivelles in 1974.

The driver? Not 'Mike the Bike', but journeyman Rikky von Opel who had obviously borrowed Hailwood's helmet.

Despite being born in New York on this day in 1974, the great grandson of the founder of the Opel automotive company was the only F1 driver to hail from the lovely and rich Alpine micro-state of Liechtenstein.

Rikky enjoyed ten race starts in his short career in F1, running with Ensign in 1973 before undertaking - or buying - four races with Brabham the following year, with little to show unfortunately for his expensive efforts.

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.