A lazy start to another trip around the sun for Sir Lewis

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After celebrating his seventh world title, a BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and a long overdue knighthood over the New Year, Lewis Hamilton will enjoy one final fete before turning his attention to his preparations for the 2021 season.

On this day, Sir Lewis begins another trip around the sun as he celebrates his 36th birthday flanked by his best canine friend Roscoe.

However, a forthcoming new lucrative Mercedes contract might justify one more bash and glass of bubbly for the pair.

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.