Formula 1's class of 2023 reports for duty

They're an eclectic bunch, with a wide age span but one that overflows with raw talent and seasoned experience.

Formula 1's class of 2023 lined up for a group shot ahead of Sunday's Bahrain Grand Prix, the opening round of the 2023 F1 World Championship.

Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso is the sport's senior citizen, but the Spaniard's enthusiasm and energy hasn't waned.

At the other end of the spectrum, Oscar Piastri – one of two absolute beginners on the grid along with Williams' Logan Sargeant – will line up as the youngest charger in the field.

In fact, when Piastri was born, in April 2001, Alonso was already racing in Formula 1.

Let that sink in for a moment…

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.