Triumph and tragedy

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On this day in 1961, Phil Hill clinched the F1 world title by winning the Italian GP at Monza for Ferrari. Unfortunately, it was a tragic coronation, with Hill's team mate and title rival Wolfgang von Trips killed on the second lap of the race, along with 14 spectators. The Ferrari had collided with Jimmy Clark's Lotus, careered towards the embankment and plunged into the crowd. Phil Hill became a grief-stricken World Champion. Here, the pair offer a subdued smile to photographer Bernard Cahier's camera.

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.