McLaren adorns Bustamante in papaya glory for F1 Academy

McLaren-supported F1 Academy driver Bianca Bustamante.

McLaren Racing has unveiled a fresh livery set to grace Bianca Bustamante's F1 Academy race car throughout the 2024 season.

Hailing from the Philippines at 19 years old, Bustamante made history in October 2023 as the inaugural female driver welcomed into the McLaren Driver Development program.

Not only is Bianca a trailblazer in that regard, but she’s poised to make further waves as the first driver representing McLaren in the F1 Academy series, aligning with ART Grand Prix for the upcoming 2024 season.

The new, eye-catching livery, dominated by a vibrant blend of papaya and black elements, pays homage to McLaren's storied heritage.

Drawing inspiration from Bruce McLaren's legendary 1967 championship-winning M6A Can-Am, the design is a vivid nod to the team's illustrious past.

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.