Leclerc’s tribute to racing idol Ayrton Senna

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Ahead of this weekend’s round of racing in Brazil, Charles Leclerc enjoyed a visit to the Ayrton Senna Foundation in Sao Paulo.

The Ferrari driver was invited to the Foundation by the family of the late F1 legend, with Ayrton’s sister Viviane, who presides over the institution's activities, greeting the Monegasque.

“Ayrton is the one and only idol I’ve ever had,” Leclerc said. “I had the chance to see the car he raced, also a few helmets that he’s been using, and it was really, really emotional.

“The family has been welcoming me in the best way possible. Viviane has explained to me many stories, and also the stories of the helmets and the cars in there. And it was a very, very special moment for me for sure.”

Indeed, the visit allowed Leclerc to connect with the legacy of one of the sport's greatest icons while it was also moment of inspiration and personal reflection for the F1 driver.

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.