Hoggard enjoys 21-lap baptism of fire with Red Bull

©RedBull

Johnathan Hoggard, the winner of the 2019 Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year award, underwent his F1 baptism of fire at Silverstone on Wednesday.

The 19-year-old, who was also the recipient of a £200,000 check for winning the coveted BRDC prize, completed 21 laps onboard a 2012 championship winning Red Bull RB8.

And Hoggard was naturally all smiles after getting his first taste of F1.

"It’s a dream come true to drive an F1 car, especially around Silverstone GP," said the British F3 runner-up.

"The main thing was how much power it had, especially on full throttle, and the downforce with the blown diffuser. You can get on the power and it really does stick.

"I was trying not to leave anything on the table. It could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so I’d have regretted it if I’d have stayed in my comfort zone.

"It was a case of being confident and sensible, building up nicely. I want to go again!"

Hoggard is still working on his plans for 2021, but they may include a run at the FIA European F3 title.

©RedBull

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.