Before he kicks off his first season with Red Bull Racing, Pierre Gasly will warm himself up next week in sunny Mexico where he will take part in the 2019 Race of Champions.

Gasly will join Sebastian Vettel in motorsport's annual event that showcases the skills of drivers from various countries and disciplines.

The 22-year-old will teal up with Le Mans winner Loic Duval to represent France in the ROC Nations Cup and then measure up individually against a selection of opponents that will include, among other talents, Tom Kristensen and David Coulthard.

“It’s a big honour to be taking part in the Race Of Champions for the first time,” said Gasly.

“I’ve known about the event for many years, and I’m excited to see how it works first-hand at last.

“I know France has a rich tradition of driving success at the event so I’m looking forward to aiming for another strong performance in partnership with Loic in the ROC Nations Cup.”

The ROC will take place on January 19-20 at the famous Foro Sol stadium located at the center of Mexico City's Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

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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.

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