Race and classic pictures

Haas goes full bloom for Japanese GP

Haas is blooming into this week’s Japanese Grand Prix with a special ‘sakura’-inspired livery that celebrates the official launch of the country’s famous cherry blossom season.

With the race at Suzuka now held in spring, Haas is embracing the occasion with floral-themed VF-25s for Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman.

The team hopes this eye-catching design brings luck after a strong showing in China, where Ocon and Bearman finished respectively fifth and eighth, securing 14 points and putting Haas sixth in the Constructors’ Championship.

So, will the cherry blossoms and pink petal-power bring fortune or just fabulousness to Haas next weekend?

Either way, the US outfit has already claimed victory in the style stakes this weekend.

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.