Ericsson nails late charge to Victory Lane in Indy 500!

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Former F1 driver Marcus Ericsson savoured the traditional winner's milk in Victory Lane at Indianapolis, the Chip Ganassi Racing charger triumphing in the 106th running of the Indy 500.

Ericsson cycled to the top of the field late in the day but a red flag following a crash by his CGR teammate Jimmy Johnson left the Swedish driver facing a two-lap shootout on the restart, with a feisty Pato O'Ward snapping at his heels.

But Ericsson superbly held his own, weaving on the straights to break the tow and was exiting Turn 1 on the final lap when the race came under a final caution caused by Sage Karam.

Ericsson, sporting a special helmet inspired by the late Ronnie Peterson, was free to cruise to the finish line to become the second Swede after Kenny Brack to triumph at the Brickyard.

"I couldn’t believe it," said the former Sauber F1 driver. "I felt you can never take anything for granted, and obviously there was two laps to go.

"I was praying so hard there was not going to be another yellow, but I knew there was probably going to be one.

"It was hard to re-focus but I knew the car was amazing, the #8 crew and Chip Ganassi Racing-Honda have done such a good job, so I knew the Huski Chocolate car was fast enough. But it was still hard, you know? I had to do everything there and then to keep them behind…

"I can’t believe it. I’m so happy."

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.