Spa-Francochamps lays down the tarmac at new Eau Rouge

Spa-Francorchamps is slowly reaching the end of the first part of its extensive infrastructure and track changes, with its famous Eau Rouge-Raidillon complex receiving this week its new tarmac.

The daunting upsweep corner's layout remains unchanged but its run-off area at the top has been widened on both sides of the track.

And F1 fans attending next summer's Belgian Grand Prix will have an opportunity to enjoy the action from a remarkable vantage point thanks to the construction of a brand-new covered grandstand of a capacity of 4,600 spectators that now sits atop the famous corner.

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.