A heartfelt message from Ricciardo to Piastri

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Daniel Ricciardo’s absence from the grid in Austin next week will be a poignant reminder that one of Formula 1’s brightest stars has stepped away from the sport.

After fourteen years at the pinnacle of motorsport, the man known for his daring overtakes and a smile that lit up the paddock leaves a legacy of eight wins and countless cherished memories.

Though his final chapter in F1 came sooner than many hoped, Ricciardo left the sport with his signature grace. In a symbolic moment, the Honey Badger indulged in a helmet swap after last month's Singapore GP with fellow Aussie Oscar Piastri who replaced him at McLaren at the end of 2022.

On the lid he gave Piastri, Ricciardo wrote a heartfelt message: "Oscar, keep flying mate, doing your good thing. To many more wins :)".

It was a touching gesture, encapsulating Ricciardo’s enduring positivity and respect for the next generation, as he steps away from the grid but leaves a lasting heritage for everyone to celebrate, admire, and be inspired by.

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.