Chase Carey to start the 24 Hours of Le Mans

©WRI2

Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey will have the honour of flagging off the field of the 85th 24 Hours of Le Mans on Saturday.

Carey will be alongside Automobile de l'Ouest President Pierre Fillion tomorrow when the 60 cars race off, symbolizing a meeting of endurance racing and Formula 1.

"I am delighted that Chase Carey immediately accepted the invitation to be 2017 race starter," said Fillon.

"By starting the race side by side, we will be demonstrating the new ties forged between the ACO and Formula One, facilitated by Jean Todt, president of FIA, our partner in the World Endurance Championship.

"The ACO has always been strongly attached to the passion for endurance racing, its history and above all to the fans, the people who make the discipline what it is.

"With Chase Carey as head of Formula One, the time has come to work together on the sporting calendar, to ensure fans can follow the Grand Prix and endurance racing seasons and enjoy both disciplines to the full."

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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.