Race and classic pictures

Leclerc goes back to his roots with French GP lid

This weekend's French Grand Prix is a second home race of sorts for Charles Leclerc, and it's a round of racing that warrants a special helmet livery.

Leclerc has revived his original lid design that he sported during his karting days, when he was a young charger just chasing a dream at his locak karting track, helped by his 'big brother' Jules Bianchi who was always on hand to offer his support.

"After 19 years I’m bringing back my first design from when I started karting not far from here," wrote Leclerc on Instagram.

"I remember when I drew the design Spider-Man was on TV and I tried my best to make it look like his web. I've got many great memories from this part of my life, it’s going to be special wearing this again tomorrow ❤️"

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.

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