The memories of Frank Williams live on

©TheCahierArchive

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©TheCahierArchive

Formula 1's last active original team owner from a bygone era, Sir Frank Williams who passed away in 2021, would have celebrated his 83rd birthday on this day.

A fighter as well as a survivor, the massive battles - both personal and professional - Frank had to contend with in his lifetime put him at the top of the F1 paddock's most admired list.

From the days of running his affairs from a telephone box to the glory years of Williams in the 1980s and 1990s, it was a rocky road from rags to riches.

But despite the tragedies and hardship, Sir Frank - seen here in the picture above with partner Patrick Head - never lost his heart for racing, and for its absolute pinnacle, Formula 1.

We salute the memory of a true racer!

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.