Race and classic pictures

Russell ready to roar with special Chinese GP lid

After local hero Zhou Guanyu’s special Chinese Grand Prix helmet livery, George Russell has joined the party celebrating Formula 1’s return to Shanghai this weekend.

The Mercedes driver’s one-off lid is a fusion of tradition and modernity.

The helmet’s vibrant red base, symbolizing luck and prosperity, is emblazoned with a majestic golden dragon soaring across it, accompanied by elegant Chinese characters.

The electrifying design is a celebration of culture and speed as the F1 circus roars back to the heart of China.

“There are so many cool details I wanted to bring forward to celebrate being back here in Shanghai,” commented Russell after unveiling his lid on social media.

“Firstly, the colour red. A colour I used to race in and of course the colour of celebrations in Chinese culture. As I was born in 1998, the Year of the Tiger, I put a Tiger at the back alongside my name in Chinese.

“It’s also the Year of the Dragon this year so I wanted to feature this too. I’ve also included 63 in Chinese characters on the sides.

“It feels great to be racing in China again and I wanted to celebrate with something special, I hope you like it!”

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.