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Haas' Grosjean and Magnussen get NASCAR ride at COTA

Haas' Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen will sample the big bore force of a NASCAR machine this week ahead of the US Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas.

Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart, co-owner of the Stewart-Haas NASCAR outfit, will demonstrate on Thursday the #14 Haas Automation Ford Mustang at COTA, with Grosjean and Magnussen taking turns in the car's passenger seat before they both have a chance to drive the car.

A year ago, Stewart, who retired from racing at the end of 2016, coached Magnussen during the Dane's run in a 750-horsepower sprint car. But when it comes to cars with a roof, Magnussen's experience is limited to a test in a Mercedes DTM machine a while back.

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"A NASCAR is such an iconic race car," said Magnussen. "I've always been eager to try one. Of course, it's usually in its element on an oval, but they do race on road courses, as well.

"It'll be interesting to have a go and have a bit of fun."

Grosjean, who raced a Ford GT1 back in 2010, has spoken in the past of his ambition of one day enjoying a proper run in a NASCAR machine.

It'll be but a short ride for the Frenchman but he is looking forward to getting behind the hweel just the same.

"I think we just need to slam the brakes a bit earlier than we do with a Formula One car," Grosjean said.

"We’ll see how the engine responds to throttle application. I can’t wait. The sound of it’s going to be great.

"I think it’s going to be a good experience. I think having Tony Stewart helping us and giving us advice is going to be bloody amazing."

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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.