A team on a mission to bring it home at Le Mans

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Celebrations were in order in the Ferrari-AF Corse garage on Thursday evening after the team's historic pole and lockout of the front row for the 100th running of the Le Mans 24 Hours.

But 50 years on from its last pole at the classic endurance event, the Italian outfit's biggest challenge is yet to follow: bringing it home this weekend in the Sarthe!

The House of Maranello's last overall triumph at Le Mans dates back to 1965 with Jochen Rindt and Masten Gregory onboard a 250 LM.

So the stage is set for an intense battle between Ferrari and its many rivals – including the hazards of the race itself – as the Prancing Horse pursues glory and seeks to etch its name in Le Mans history once again.

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.