Race and classic pictures

Pole and victory on the same day? Schumacher did it!

Michael Schumacher made history on this day in 2004 at the Japanese Grand Prix, although it was a minor achievement that he owed to typhoon 'Ma-on' rather than to his outstanding skills.

The massive storm had released buckets of water over Suzuka on Saturday, forcing organizers to cancel the entire day of running.

Qualifying was therefore held on Sunday morning under clear blue skies, with Schumacher clinching pole and thus leading the field off the grid a few hours later.

It was a simple effort for the great German who led home brother Ralf in a Williams and BAR's Jenson Button, Schumacher conquering his 83rd career win in Formula 1 en route to his seventh and final world title.

It was therefore the first time in F1 history that a driver had taken pole and a victory on the same day.

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.