A toast to Niki and to an enduring legacy

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The great Niki Lauda would have celebrated his 76th birthday on this day, and the great Austrian remains in everyone’s heart.

Lauda, once a titan in Ferrari red and later a guiding light for Mercedes, would have certainly had a few interesting words to say about Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave the Brackley squad and move to the Scuderia.

Ultimately, the three-time world champion would have respected the decision. He admired Hamilton's fire, his drive.

But he'd warn of the inferno waiting in Maranello, the pressure, the internal battles. He'd push Lewis to be the champion Ferrari needed, the leader they craved, while reminding him of the delicate dance required to navigate the team's complexities.

In the end, Lauda would have watched, perhaps with a wry smile, hoping Lewis could tame the red beast and write a new chapter in Ferrari's glorious, yet turbulent, history.

Happy birthday Niki! We miss you...

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.