F1 drivers sign off with a quiet night out

©Instagram/ZhouGunyu

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©Instagram/ZhouGunyu

Long after the checkered flag had dropped on the 2023 F1 season, a quiet scene unfolded away from the racetrack in Abu Dhabi, revealing the camaraderie that binds F1 drivers beyond the fierce competition.

On Sunday evening, a group of drivers gathered for a private dinner, and though the season’s victor, Max Verstappen, was absent, his colleagues' presence underscored the sense of unity that permeates the paddock, despite the intense rivalries that fuel their on-track battles.

As the drivers savored their quiet night out, their shared experiences and unwavering passion for the sport transcended the competitive arena, reaffirming the human connection that lies at the heart of Formula 1.

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.