Race and classic pictures

Alonso unveils £2m Aston Martin Valiant hypercar gem

Behold two-time F1 world champion Fernando Alonso, flashing a coy smile next to his £2million Aston Martin Valiant – a "rear winged titan" now cozying up to his Valkyrie in the Spaniard’s Monaco garage.

The bespoke beauty, packing a 745 PS 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, an all-carbon fibre body, and a top speed of 202 mph, is one of just 38 ever crafted – rarer than a smooth Aston pit stop these days!

Unveiled in Monaco and Paris, Alonso’s proving that while the track might test his patience, his car collection’s horsepower could leave his rivals choking on exhaust fumes!

Underperformance on track, overachievement in the garage.

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.