Race and classic pictures

Rossi’s 2024 McLaren charger: It’s a modern-classic!

McLaren will pull the covers off its 2024 car next week on Valentine’s Day, but its IndyCar affiliate – Arrow McLaren SP – has already rolled out Alexander Rossi’s striking #7 contender.

As Rossi enters his second season in papaya, the 32-year-old was thrilled with his car’s new livery which blends a modern feel with a classic throwback according to its driver, the senior member of a line-up that also includes Pato O’Ward and David Malukas.

“I absolutely love the new livery on the No. 7 car,” Rossi said. “It really does a very good job of representing the modernness of today’s papaya, but also has a bit of a classic throwback to it.

“I can’t wait to get it on track soon.”

Rossi’s 2023 season saw some robust and consistent performances, but also a solid foundation for improvement.

“Last year had a lot of positives throughout what was a very challenging year in terms of transitioning into a new organization that was going through a pretty big expansion,” Rossi said.

“Now that everything has settled down and we are all comfortable with working with each other, it is important that we maximize each other’s potential to get the best results on track.”

IndyCar’s action will off once again on the streets of St. Petersburg on March 10.

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.