Race and classic pictures

Alonso and Costner rev-up Aston Martin’s star-studded unveiling

Seated at a star-studded table amidst the glitz and glamour of the Venice International Film Festival, Fernando Alonso shares a lively conversation with Hollywood legend Kevin Costner.

The duo, and many more A-listers, was brought together on Monday by Aston Martin's dazzling unveiling of its Vanquish, the manufacturer’s new ultra-exclusive V12 flagship sports car.

From F1 world champion to social butterfly, Alonso shifted gears with ease, exchanging notes with Costner, a man who is no stranger to iconic roles, as the pair took up their spot at the intersection of Hollywood stardom and high-performance horsepower.

Cheers to fast cars and even faster friendships!

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.