Hamilton triumphs on Formula 1's final visit to Indy

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On this day in 2007, Lewis Hamilton won the final US Grand Prix hosted by America's temple of speed, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Formula 1 raced in Indiana eight times between 2000 and 2007, and ever since the legendary track's acquisition by fellow motorsport legend Roger Penske, there has been speculation of a return of Grand Prix racing to Indy at some point in the future.

Hamilton, in his maiden year in F1 with McLaren, secured his second career win in the sport at the US Grand Prix, beating teammate Fernando Alonso and Ferrari's Felipe Massa.

But the race was also a milestone event for a young man named Sebastian Vettel who joined the grid for the very first time on this day, racing for BMW Sauber.

And for good measure, the future four-time world champion also went on to secure his first championship point after crossing the checkered flag P8.

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.