It’s that time of the year again for Britain’s F1 ‘Rat Pack’

©X/MarkBlundell

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©X/MarkBlundell

‘Tis the season once more for The Rat Pack, that boisterous gathering of a group of former British F1 drivers who traditionally reunite in London for their annual Christmas lunch.

Led by the ever-ebullient Perry McCarthy, this merry band of brothers – we'll let you decipher their identities – come together for a feast of camaraderie, laughter, and tales from the track – most of which are unrepeatable.

Oh, to be a fly on the wall…

Here's a little challenge for you: out of this motley crew, who among them has never ventured onto the hallowed grounds 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.