Max gives Willem-Alexander and Maxima the Royal tour

©RedBull

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©RedBull

Formula 1's return to Zandvoort was a massive success on all fronts, thanks in large part to the equally colossal popularity of Max Verstappen.

The Red Bull driver's Orange Army was out in force on all three days of the event to support the efforts of its hero, but Verstappen received the backing of someone special on Sunday: King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, accompanied by his spouse Queen Maxima.

Ahead of his 17th career win in F1, Max treated his prestigious visitors to a Royal tour of the Red Bull garage.

And hours later, standing proud atop the Dutch Grand Prix podium, looking down at the royal couple, the leader of the F1 world championship indulged in a royal wave.

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.