A poignant moment of reflection for Gasly at Spa

40

Two years on from the tragic death at Spa-Francorchamps of his close friend Anthoine Hubert, the pain still lingers for Pierre Gasly.

As a young talent who had grown up alongside Hubert in the ranks of karting and who had shared a flat with the Renault protégé during their early years in the sport, the latter's passing dealt a massive blow to the AlphaTauri charger.

On Thursday, ahead of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, Gasly made his way to the top of the hill at Spa's Raidillon during his track walk, and paused for a poignant moment of reflection in which he paid a solitary tribute to his fallen friend.

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.