Hamilton begins farewell tour with tribute to Malaysian fans

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While his F1 colleagues and future rivals were still sweating it out in testing in Abu Dhabi, Lewis Hamilton was in Kuala Lumper to bid an emotional farewell to Malaysian fans and to the employees of long-time Mercedes partner Petronas.

Over 1,000 Petronas staff gathered at the iconic Twin Towers, while the seven-time F1 World Champion expressed gratitude for their shared successes.

“These 12 years are something I will never forget, and, through the highs and the lows, it is always felt that we are a family,” he said.

“To be part of a partnership between our team and Petronas that has been so successful, one of the greatest in the history of the sport, is something I am so proud of. We've achieved so much more than we ever thought was possible.

“I will miss you all.”

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.