Verstappen hopes 'to make the orange crowds smile' at Spa

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As usual, Dutch Formula 1 fans will be converging to Spa-Francorchamps next weekend, and Max Verstappen will be the object of their desire.

For the Red Bull Racing driver, the Ardennes venue is as close as it gets to being a home race, with Max actually even born in Belgium although he holds a Dutch passport.

"Racing at Spa is always special. I was born just an hour down the road so it is pretty much a home race for me," said the 20-year-old in his team's Belgian Grand Prix preview.

"You can see by the orange crowds and campsites full of Dutch caravans that the fans come out in force, this only adds to the home race feel."

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While team mate Daniel Ricciardo enjoyed a podium finish at Spa last year, Verstappen was sidelined after just a handful of laps following a power issue.

That's a fate he hopes he'll avoid this year, especially as the legendary track is one of his favourite circuits.

"The track is set in the forest which makes it different to drive from other circuits. Eau Rouge is of course special but my favourite part is Pouhon, the fast lefts feel really nice," he added.

"While at Spa you have to try the Waffles and Frites, they are a tradition and delicious. The win in Austria was amazing as it was Red Bull’s home race and there was a massive Dutch following.

"To win in Spa would be similar, orange and flags everywhere, I hope we can make them smile this year."

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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.