Race and classic pictures

Ocon brings it home and comes full circle

Sitting on the front wheel of his Alpine A521, Esteban Ocon was beaming with pride as he was reunited on Tuesday with the very car that propelled him to his maiden F1 win in Hungary in 2021.

The car, now nestled in its new home, the family garage, isn’t just a winning machine to him – it
stands as a testament to the unwavering support and sacrifices that paved the way for his success.

Surrounded by girlfriend Flavy and his parents, Laurent and Sabrina, the moment is made even more special for the Frenchman. The latter were there from the very beginning, enduring countless challenges and making numerous sacrifices to support their son’s racing ambitions.

Their belief in him never faltered, even when the road seemed impossible.

Bringing this incredible car home and placing it in his parents’ garage is more than just a homecoming; it's a tribute to their dedication and love. This victory, this car, is as much theirs as it is Esteban’s.

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.

Recent Posts

Theo Pourchaire joins Mercedes as F1 development driver

The revolving door of Formula 1 talent has just swung wide open for one of…

7 hours ago

Hill returns to Williams in ambassador role in title anniversary year

Thirty years after conquering the Formula 1 world title with Williams, Damon Hill is heading…

8 hours ago

Sainz's clear message to F1 chiefs: ‘Stay open-minded on rules'

Carlos Sainz has urged FIA and Formula One Management to keep an “open mind” over…

9 hours ago

Why ex-Red Bull drivers see Hadjar keeping pace with Verstappen

Isack Hadjar is facing the ultimate baptism of fire this season in F1: going wheel-to-wheel…

10 hours ago

The day Fangio went missing in Havana

The great Juan Manuel Fangio certainly enjoyed a storied motorsport career but the episode that…

12 hours ago

‘I want to win’ – Herta responds to Cadillac’s F2 expectations

Colton Herta has been handed a clear target by Cadillac ahead of his rookie FIA…

13 hours ago