Birthday boy Verstappen hoping for 'a Russian GP to remember'

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Next weekend's Russian Grand Prix will coincide with a special milestone for Max Verstappen, offering the Red Bull driver an extra reason to make it a race to remember.

In many countries 21 is the age of majority, a threshold of adulthood as recognized by the law. But when it comes to Formula 1, as a four-time Grand Prix winner, Max Verstappen's maturity is undeniable.

While his Red Bull team mate Daniel Ricciardo isn't expecting any fireworks in Sochi, Verstappen will still pull out all the stops to try and deliver to himself a result worthy of the occasion.

Sochi 'doesn't play to Red Bull strengths' admits Ricciardo

"This year’s Russian Grand Prix will be a special one for me," admits Max. "It is my 21st birthday on Sunday, so hopefully I can make it one to remember."

"I think I celebrated my 18th there also, so it won’t be new to have my birthday in Sochi. I feel Russia is an up and coming Grand Prix as it still feels quite new to me."

Verstappen hadn't yet reached the big time when the Russian Grand Prix first took place in 2014. Since however, it's been a story of two top-ten finishes and one retirement along the shores of the Black Sea.

"As well as being in the Olympic Park the track has a unique layout. The views form parts of the track and the hotels are really nice.

"On one side you have the mountains and on the other, the sea.

"It’s not the best track for our car so it’s vital to get the set-up right for specific corners, we know we will lose time on the long straights so cornering is key."

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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.