Mercedes boys offer Federer high-octane break

Tennis legend Roger Federer was in the Mercedes house on Saturday in Barcelona, the Swiss taking a high-octane break from the practice courts to indulge in his "need for speed" as he wrote on social media.

Federer spent the day immersed in the high-strung atmosphere of the Mercedes garage where he witnessed the nest performance so far this season in qualifying for George Russell and Lewis Hamilton.

When all was said and done, Russell in particular seemed delighted to flank the 20-time Grand Slam winner for the essential photo opportunity.

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.