It's a ruthless world but everyone loves Danny Ric

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Formula 1 is a ruthless world at times, with little sympathy given to those – teams or drivers – who suffer a sporting setback.

But last weekend at Spa, just days after McLaren and Daniel Ricciardo confirmed their split at the end of the season, a few of the Aussie's colleagues chose to sit with the Honey Badger ahead of the start of the Belgian Grand Prix.

And even FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem nonchalantly joined in on the brief support gathering, something his predecessor had never done with any driver before a race in his twelve years at the helm of F1's governing body.

Perhaps the moment embodied the true meaning of "We Race as One"…

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.