Remembering McLaren co-founder Teddy Mayer

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Legendary Formula 1 team boss Teddy Mayer passed away on this day in 2009 at the age of 73.

So here is a tribute shot to a man who was not only a founding member of the original McLaren team, but also one of the major architects of the outfit's early success.

Following the untimely death of Bruce McLaren in 1970, Mayer was instrumental in keeping the team together, steadily building McLaren into a force to be reckoned with in Grand Prix racing.

The American manager spearheaded the team's first two world championship titles, achieved in 1974 with Emerson Fittipaldi and in 1976 with James Hunt, pictured here above with Teddy at the 1976 German Grand Prix.

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.