Something special about that maiden win mood

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A maiden win in F1 is the culmination of a driver's aspirations, regardless of when it occurs in one's career.

But when the milestone achievement is preceded by those grassroots efforts that spur on a dream, that convince one to endure the years of trials and tribulations, the hardship and doubt, feelings of relief and appeasement take hold.

In the aftermath of his shock win earlier this year in the Italian GP, AlphaTauri's Pierre Gasly sat head down, alone on the Monza podium, mulling the whirlwind of emotions and thoughts that rushed through his memory and mind during that precious moment.

On Sunday evening, an overwhelmed Sergio Perez mimicked the same pensive posture as he struggled to realise his long-overdue accomplishment in Bahrain.

There's definitely something special about that maiden win mood…

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.