A happy precedent for Checo in Qatar

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Formula 1 teams will enjoy a first in Qatar this weekend, but one driver in the field is actually familiar with the Losail International Circuit.

Back in 2009, Sergio Perez competed at the venue in a round of the Asian GP2 series and won the second race that took place that weekend.

Perhaps it's a good omen for the Red Bull driver, although Perez admitted to not remembering very much of his winning weekend in the desert back then.

"It’s a really fast track, with a lot of downforce required, let’s see how fast we’ll be," he said.

"I don’t remember it well, I ran there a long time ago, so I don’t think I have much of an advantage!

"Three races remain in the season, and everything is still at stake. In Brazil there was a very fun race, we hope it will be like this again this weekend."

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.