Race and classic pictures

Hazy memories of Alonso's first day in Paradise

For many, Fernando Alonso's first F1 world title - conquered by the Spaniard with Renault in Shanghai on this day in 2005 - is but a distant memory lost in the haze.

But the milestone achievement has likely survived intact in the F1 veteran's mind.

Eighteen years on, at 42, Alonso is still going strong. Not only is the Aston Martin charger still starting each race with the bit between his teeth, but he also demonstrated this season that with the right equipment, he's still a force to be reckoned with in F1.

Can he win a third title in the coming years?

Team Silverstone holds part of the answer to that question, but Nando's fans can be sure of one thing: F1's Matador will always give it his best shot!

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.