Race and classic pictures

Vettel roars through time powered by Senna’s spirit

After his group track run on Friday that paid tribute to Imola’s fallen heroes in 1994, Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger, Sebastian Vettel indulged in another personal homage to the late Brazilian.

After Saturday’s qualifying, Vettel donned his helmet and overalls once again to thrill the fans with a session of hot laps onboard Senna’s race winning McLaren MP4/8, of which the German is the proud owner.

Taking to the track onboard Senna’s machine signified a profound gesture of respect by Vettel for one of his biggest idols, and a chance to connect with the heritage of a true racing legend.

But the fans were the true beneficiaries of Vettel's demo laps at Imola, especially given the roar of the Cosworth-powered car – a sound almost lost to modern Formula 1 – which reverberated through the historic circuit, evoking memories of Formula 1's golden era.

For those who witnessed Senna's dominance firsthand, the thrilling moment was a powerful reminder of the sport's rich history and the enduring legacy of the Brazilian maestro.

Vettel will take to the track again this afternoon as a lead-in to the Emilia Romagna GP.

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.