A quiet moment in the garage for Mathias Lauda and son

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Time has a way of moving forward, but in the Mercedes garage, certain things remain beautifully frozen.

Ahead of this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix, the spirit of three-time world champion Niki Lauda felt closer than ever as his family returned to the paddock.

Inside the Mercedes garage, where Lauda stood post for so many years as the Brackley squad’s non-executive director, his son Mathias shared a quiet, deeply moving moment with Niki's grandson, Lennon.

Together, they stood before the legendary Austrian’s permanent tribute: his iconic red cap and headset, which have watched over the team since his passing in 2019.

For Mathias, it was a poignant return to the squad his father helped build into a dominant force. For young Lennon, it was a tangible link to a grandfather who was both a racing titan and a beloved family anchor.

Passing down these stories ensures that Niki's fierce determination and warmth are never forgotten. The red star on the silver livery honors his memory on the track, but moments like this prove his truest legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved him most.

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.