Race and classic pictures

Fuoco delivers stunning Sebring Hypercar pole to Ferrari

©Ferrari

Antonio Fuoco put the hype in Ferrari's Hypercar on Thursday at Sebring.

The AF Corsa charger celebrated Ferrari's return after 50 years to the top class of endurance racing by snatching a sensational pole for Friday's WEC opening event of 2023, the 1000 Miles of Sebring.

Fuoco's blistering 1m45.067s lap onboard Ferrari's #50 twin-turbo V6-powered hybrid 499Ps outpaced Toyota's #8 entry by 0.214s.

"I feel really good at the moment, I want to thank the guys," said the 26-year-old who shares driving duties onboard #50 with Miguel Molina and Nicklas Nielsen.

"Getting pole for Ferrari after 50 years is amazing. The team has done an amazing job — we are putting everything together.

"It was quite difficult because the sun was setting, and visibility was low in the final corners. The car felt really nice though. It’s good to start from a nice position.

"The key tomorrow will be managing tyres — we will try to do our best in our first experience. We are really motivated and will do our best."

©Ferrari

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.