Alonso's friendship with Renault 'continues to grow'

While everyone was focused on events at Istanbul Park on Sunday, Fernando Alonso was raking up the miles in Abu Dhabi with Renault.

On Monday, the Spaniard completed a two-day test at Yas Marina behind the wheel of a 2018-spec car as he continued his preparations for his return to the grid with Renault in 2021.

"My friendship with R.S.18. continues to grow," tweeted the two-time world champion who put 74 laps under his belt on Sunday and an additional 116 laps on Monday.

"It was fantastic to be back in the car, to feel the Formula 1 speed again in the 2018 car, getting to know the procedures of the team," Alonso said.

"I enjoyed every single lap, I can’t wait until next year to be back racing and meanwhile I will support the team in the final races."

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.