Video: McLaren fires up MCL34 for the first time

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It was all systems go at Woking this week, with McLaren firing up its Renault-powered 2019 charger for the very first time.

An initial fire-up is always somewhat of solemn moment, and one that hasn't always gone according to plan back in the Honda days.

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Two weeks before the official launch of the team's MCL34, McLaren released on Twitter a short tease video of the instant, with the troops gathered around the beast as it comes to life.

Watching the footage, one will see Carlos Sainz engaged with the crews and the workers.

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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.