Sir Jackie remembers a friend and fallen hero

October 24 of this year will mark 50 years since the passing of Swiss motorsport hero Jo Siffert, who was tragically killed at Brands Hatch in 1971 in a season ending non-championship F1 race.

The two-time Grand Prix winner and legendary Porsche sportscar driver's memory was revived last weekend at the Swiss Viper Museum in Givisiez where a special exhibit of Siffert's car is ongoing.

The commemoration was attended by the Siffert family and many distinguished guests, including three-time F1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart, a close friend of the late Swiss driver.

Sir Jackie paid a heartfelt tribute to Fribourg's local hero after visiting Siffert's grave earlier in the day.

Because you never forget those fallen on the battlefield.

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.