When third-gen Andretti revved up for F1 – but Indy came first

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In December 2006, Marco Andretti made Formula 1 history as the sport's first-ever third-generation driver to get behind the wheel of an F1 car at an official test session, proving that the Andretti racing dynasty wasn’t about to pump the brakes on its heritage anytime soon.

The son of Michael Andretti and grandson of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti, Marco was already carrying a name heavier than a fully-fueled F1 car. But in mid-December 2006, Honda decided to give the young IndyCar star his shot, announcing he’d get to test their Formula 1 car.

The big day came at the Jerez circuit in Spain, where Marco suited up and took to the track, under the watchful eye of Honda’s sporting director Gil de Ferran who praised Andretti for doing “an excellent job”.

The 19-year-old enjoyed the experience but kept things cool, shrugging off the glittering allure of F1 with a focus on his immediate goal: winning the Indianapolis 500.

Turns out, even when your name is Andretti, you’ve still got priorities – and Marco’s were firmly rooted on American soil, where they would remain.

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.