Champions’ reunion: F1 icons serve up the memories at Goodwood

©Instagram/KarunChandhok

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©Instagram/KarunChandhok - Pete Summers/@jayson.fong

What do you get when seven Formula 1 world champions walk into a garden party? A combined 14 world titles, a trophy cabinet that could fill a large garage and countless stories from the golden eras of racing.

On Saturday at Goodwood House, Mario Andretti, Jacques Villeneuve, Emerson Fittipaldi, Sir Jackie Stewart, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, and Mika Hakkinen gathered for what might be the most star-studded hill climb cooldown in history, with former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and the event’s distinguished host, the Duke of Richmond, also in the frame along with Goodwood presenter Karun Chandhok.

Fresh from their runs in legendary machines – save for Stewart who let his sons do the heavy lifting in period Tyrrells – the group swapped helmets for handshakes, smiles, and a touch of friendly mischief.

With engines still warm and egos playfully revving, they posed like schoolboys pulling a prank, proving that even world champs can’t resist a good laugh and a petrol-fueled reunion. Goodwood, you’ve outdone yourself!

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.