Race and classic pictures

Djokovic dives into the fast lane at Qatar Grand Prix

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic has brought his champion’s mindset to the fast lane at the Qatar Grand Prix this weekend.

With 24 Grand Slam singles titles under his belt, the Serbian superstar knows what it takes to perform under pressure – a perspective he clearly shared while stepping onto the Lusail podium on Saturday to present the Sprint race trophies to Oscar Piastri, George Russell, and Lando Norris.

But Djokovic isn’t just playing ceremonial guest in Doha; he has fully immersed himself in the paddock, talking with drivers, engineers, and team members, soaking up the intensity and strategy of Formula 1.

Curious and ever-observant, the Serb experienced first-hand the thrills and challenges of a world where speed, precision, and nerves are tested at every turn, just like they are during a Grand Slam fifth set!

 

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.

Recent Posts

The brutal mirror: Herbert’s no-filter advice for Lewis Hamilton

Few names in Formula 1 carry the same weight as Lewis Hamilton. Seven world titles.…

8 hours ago

Beltoise's one-off masterclass and 'Jour de Gloire'

One-time Grand Prix winner Jean-Pierre Beltoise was born on this day in 1937. The late…

10 hours ago

Rubber side up: Jos Verstappen’s Sunday somersault in Wallonia

Jos Verstappen’s efforts in this weekend’s  Rallye de Wallonie took a dramatic turn on Sunday…

11 hours ago

Mercedes ‘ticking all the boxes’ but Russell dismisses title hype

Three races into the 2026 season, and Kimi Antonelli and George Russell find themselves in…

12 hours ago

A grid of opportunity: BYD considers leap into Formula 1!

In Formula 1, whispers often travel faster than the cars themselves. And lately, one name…

13 hours ago

How Hadjar engineered his leap to ‘weird’ Red Bull seat

During his 2025 rookie season in F1, Isack Hadjar carried himself with a calm, almost…

14 hours ago