Not President Sulayem's proudest moment

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FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem enjoyed for several decades a successful career in rallying, establishing himself as a leading motorsport figure in the Middle-East.

But back in 2009, the former Emirati drivers' attempt to master an F1 car ended with a painful bang.

Sulayem had been called upon by Renault to demo an R28 at a roadshow that took place at the Dubai Autodrome.

But the then president of the UAE automobile club lost it almost immediately as he accelerated away, the R28 veering right on the straight and crashing into a concrete barrier, its unfortunate driver emerging unscathed from the wreck but considerably shaken and embarrassed.

Every man to his trade…

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.