Williams rolls out legendary 'Red 5' for Jenson Button

©Williams

Williams Racing brand ambassador Jenson Button brought an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia to Silverstone on Sunday morning ahead of this afternoon's British Grand Prix.

The 2009 F1 World Champion was entrusted with the Grove-based outfit's legendary FW14B that delivered the title to Williams and to Nigel Mansell in 1992.

For Button, it was a unique opportunity to experience the machine that had played a significant role in the team's success and to pay tribute to Williams' 800th Grand Prix celebration which are unfolding this weekend at Silverstone.

©Williams

"It was unbelievable! It was pretty emotional to drive the car that really was the car from my childhood," Button said.

"I remember sitting on the sofa with my old man watching all the races and seeing Nigel clinch the title, and this was the car he won that championship for Williams in.

"Once you get on track, the sound of that engine is so beautiful. You never know what to expect driving a heritage car - this one is 31 years old - but it’s very quick!

"The high speed is sensational and far beyond what I expected and I only did two laps! What a pleasure. I feel so lucky to have been able to drive that car. It’s a moment I’ll remember forever."

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.