Billionaire Bonding: F1's power players plot next move

©Instagram/FlavioBriatore

40

©Instagram/FlavioBriatore

One can always rely on the flamboyant Flavio Briatore to rev up the riches at any one of his successful 'Billionaire' clubs.

The Italian's Porto Cervo club in Sardinia was transformed into a high-octane hangout this week as F1 team owners Lawrence Stroll and Toto Wolff – billionaires in their own right – converged to the trendy spot with F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali in tow.

Amidst the glitz and glamour, the group huddled around the table, the air heavy with whispered plans as Briatore leaned in with a conspiratorial wink while Stroll and Wolff exchanged knowing glances.

Meanwhile, chief steward Domenicali valiantly held his own, clutching his sparkling water like a trophy while subtly swapping wine glasses across the table, ensuring that the group's conniving schemes were as muddled as a rain-soaked track on race day.

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.