No off weekend for true racer Zak Brown

©Instagram/ZakBrown

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©Instagram/ZakBrown

While the Formula 1 paddock takes a brief breath between Grand Prix weekends, McLaren CEO Zak Brown is doing what he does best: keeping his competitive juices firmly flowing at full throttle.

Rather than kicking back and relaxing, the American motorsport mogul spent his weekend trackside at the iconic Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, reuniting with his United Autosports co-owner and partner Richard Dean for the Imola Classic.

And true to form, they didn't just turn up to make up the numbers – they walked away with two P3 podium finishes on Saturday alone.

©Instagram/ZakBrown

Their double-podium success began with a storming drive in Group C behind the wheel of Brown’s legendary Jaguar XJR-8, bringing pure vintage thunder back to the hills of Emilia-Romagna.

Shortly after, they traded raw Group C muscle for Italian flair, securing their second third-place trophy of the day in an ERL2 Ferrari 430.

Two races, two podiums, and endless passion for the sport. For Zak Brown, racing isn't just a boardroom strateg – it’s a lifelong obsession.

©Instagram/ZakBrown

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.