Hazy memories of Alonso's first day in Paradise

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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.

A full twenty-one years on, at 45, Alonso is still going strong, starting each race with Aston Martin with the bit between his teeth and battling with the determination and grit of a young gun.

But winning a third world title is now only a very remote possibility for Fernando.

However, his many fans can be sure of one thing: F1's Matador will always give it his best shot for as long as he's around.

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.