Happy ‘56’ to Formula 1’s ultimate fighter

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On this special day, we celebrate the 56th birthday of the legendary Michael Schumacher.

We could have chosen a picture reflecting a happy moment in the seven-time world champion’s career. Yet we purposefully selected this candid and uneventful shot.

For us, it depicts what Michael would look like and what he would be doing if he was still with us in the paddock today.

He would likely be a constant presence at the racetrack, dressed up in Mercedes team kit as a special advisor to the team, headphones on, watching the action with the Brackley squad, or perhaps with Ferrari.

Michael Schumacher is forever linked to Formula 1, and his fighting spirit continues to inspire and motivate the sport, while his legacy lives on in every corner of the paddock.

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.