McLaren honors Mika Häkkinen amid 1,000th GP celebrations

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A special chapter of McLaren racing history took permanent residence on the Boulevard at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking on Tuesday as the team unveiled a breathtaking bronze statue by acclaimed British artist Paul Oz, honoring the legendary "Flying Finn," Mika Häkkinen.

The sculpture masterfully freezes time, capturing the exact moment of pure, unbridled joy when Mika clinched the first of his back-to-back World Championships with McLaren at Suzuka in 1998.

Standing beside his bronze likeness, the 57-year-old’s signature smile mirrored the golden era he helped define.

The day carried a double weight of legacy and celebration. Beyond honoring one of its favorite sons, McLaren gathered its entire MTC staff to commemorate an extraordinary milestone: the team’s 1000th Grand Prix.

From the heritage cars lining the floor to the sea of papaya-clad team members crowding together for a massive group selfie alongside current stars Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, the atmosphere was electric with pride.

It was a heartfelt reminder that while technology and engineering drives the sport forward, it is the human spirit, dedication, and iconic moments like Mika's that truly define McLaren's enduring legacy.

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.