McLaren junior Ugochukwu dominates Macau GP crash-fest

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McLaren junior Ugo Ugochukwu came out on top of Sunday’s Macau Grand Prix after a dominant display in a challenging race that featured a red flag and five safety car periods.

The American driver was the driver to beat throughout the weekend in the former Portuguese colony, setting the fastest time in qualifying on Friday to earn pole position for Saturday's qualifying race which he duly won.

This set up the 17-year-old charger for a triumphant race on Sunday as he led the field with authority and flawless execution despite the event’s multiple disruptions.

"Of course, the goal was to come in and win, but to be P1 since Friday is just great - I was definitely not expecting it," Ugochukwu told Motorsport.com.

"To actually get the job done and win the main race, which is the most important, was a great feeling."

Ugo’s victorious march was watched from afar by McLaren Racing boss Zak Brown who praised team papaya’s protégé for his outstanding efforts.

“Excellent skill and determination to navigate a tricky race. We’re proud!” write Brown on Instagram.

“Ugo picks up the trophy previously won by legends like Senna and Schumacher and is the first American to win it in over 40 years! Mega! ”

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.