Race and classic pictures

France's Gendarmerie has a new chief driving officer

France's famous national Gendarmerie has received a new set of wheels from Alpine, along with some useful driving tips from a qualified expert.

None other than Alpine's very own Esteban Ocon was called in to instruct those who will be handling one of the national fleet's 26 specially prepared Alpine A110s that will help maintain law and order on France's roads.

"They gave me the title of chief driving officer," wrote Esteban on Twitter. "I am starting the year right. Happy 2022 everyone!"

Mind your speed people when you're in France, for the Gendarmerie's intervention will be just like Ocon, fast and furious!

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.