Latifi puts his 'Faith' in Monaco

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The global pandemic has stripped part of the buzz and glitz from this year's Monaco Grand Prix, but also from the docks of the Principality's iconic Port Hercule.

The natural bay at the foot of Monte Carlo's ancestral rock, which was used as a trading port by the Greeks and Romans in a bygone era, is famous for its extravagant mega yachts and associated jetset lifestyle which provide the perfect back drop to the Monaco Grand Prix weekend.

But Superyachts mooring in the marina are not common sight this year unfortunately, save for the 96-meter vessel 'Faith' whose owner is directly connected to F1.

Until last year, 'Faith' was owned by fashion mogul and Aston Martin executive chairman Lawrence Stroll, and as such it was the family's floating home during the Monaco race weekend in 2019.

But the Superyacht changed hands last summer, and reportedly went from one prominent Canadian billionaire to another, with Michael Latifi, the father of Williams charger Nicholas Latifi, now sitting at the helm.

Some of the floating palaces highlights include a nine-metre, glass-bottomed swimming pool fed by a waterfall, a games deck and a helideck for trips to and from the mothership.

No need to pity Lawrence Stroll for parting with the ship. The Aston Martin boss is reportedly building a new smaller 80-meter yacht in the Netherlands.

Because we're all downgrading in these difficult times, right?

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.