Vowles lives out FW14B dream ahead of Goodwood run

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Before jetting off to Montreal, Williams team boss James Vowles geared up on Wednesday for his upcoming run up the hill at Goodwood’s Festival of Speed with Nigel Mansell’s iconic 1992 title-winning FW14B, aka ‘Red 5’.

Vowles took the legendary active-suspension beast out for a spin, getting a taste of what Mansell felt during one of the most dominant seasons in F1 history.

The car – designed by an engineering dream team comprised of Adrian Newey, Patrick Head, and Paddy Lowe – is considered by many to be the most technologically advanced race cars ever built. No pressure, James.

Reflecting on the drive in a post on social media, a clearly awestruck Vowles said:

“One of the most incredible days of my career. Today, I had the opportunity to drive Nigel Mansell’s championship-winning car, the FW14B, ahead of our trip to Goodwood.

“You dream of days like this, and that opportunity of a lifetime came today, just over 30 years since I watched this car race on TV. Today was special, but Goodwood will be on another level, with hundreds of thousands of people roaring as we climb that famous hill. I can’t wait to see you all there.”

Now, all that’s left is for JV to channel his inner ‘Il Leone’ next month and give the fans their money’s worth.

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.