Race and classic pictures

Russell enjoys chance encounter with a familiar face

As we mentioned yesterday the Hahnenkamm ski race weekend held at this time of the year in Kitzbuhel is traditionally the place to be for celebrities and many F1 stars.

On Saturday, Mercedes driver George Russell and four-time F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel enjoyed a chance encounter as they took in the action at the prestigious downhill event.

But Kitzbuhel is also very much the land of the Wolffs, so Russell and girlfriend Carmen Mundt also shared time with Toto and Susie Wolff.

“Such a cool experience attending Kitzbühel Downhill for the first time,” commented Russell. “Awesome weekend learning more about such a challenging sport and even bumped into a familiar face too⛷️ ”

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.