Coulthard gives South Africa its F1 homecoming

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F1 made its long-awaited return to the African continent as David Coulthard raced around the historic Kyalami Circuit in Johannesburg, South Africa giving the country its F1 homecoming after 31 years.

In the capable hands of the former Grand Prix driver and Red Bull ambassador, the bulls' 2011 double-title winning car, the RB7, roared around the 4,529 km track that hosted a total of 18 South African Grand Prix events between 1967 and 1985, with two more races taking place after a seven-year hiatus in 1992 and 1993.

The circuit's layout has undergone several changes since F1 last raced at Kyalami, which is now an FIA Grade2 facility. But Coulthard would love to see the venue return to the F1 calendar.

“Driving the RB7 here at Kyalami was unforgettable, with the energy of the South African people and Kyalami's world-class track, it's clear the country is ready to rejoin the F1 calendar,” said the Scot.

Red Bull has published a short film that vividly captures the thrilling sights and sounds of the RB7 rushing through the iconic former season-opening circuit.

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.