Doctor Toto Wolff receives his Honorary Degree!

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Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff has led his team to seven consecutive World Championship Constructors and Drivers' titles in F1, an outstanding achievement that was recognized on Monday by Cranfield University in its annual graduation celebrations.

Cranfield University has established a long-standing collaboration with the Brackley squad through its Advanced Motorsport MSc courses, and several of its graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers in motorsports, or with the Mercedes F1 team such as chief strategist James Vowles.

"I’m very proud to be receiving an Honorary Degree from Cranfield University," said Wolff on Monday. "It’s a special moment, particularly because of the great work and collaboration between the Mercedes F1 Team and Cranfield University over the years, which I know will continue into the future, too.

"I would like to pass my thanks to Cranfield University for the opportunity. I am now an honorary Doctor of Science, which is not something I ever expected to be, especially after failing to complete my undergraduate studies in Vienna!

"I feel both privileged and honoured to be recognised by such a prestigious institution."

Mercedes and Red Bull are now finally on equal footing with Doctor Toto Wolff on one side and Doctor Helmut Marko on the other!

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.