Giovinazzi enjoys an audience with Pope Francis!

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Yesterday was a big day for Alfa Romeo Racing's Antonio Giovinazzi who was received by Pope Francis before a general audience at the Vatican.

As Giovinazzi offered his helmet to Pope Francis, His Holiness reminded the driver of the importance of sport for youth.

Giovinazzi still believes in Ferrari dream for 2021

"It was a strong and emotional experience because having the opportunity to get to know the Pope personally and be able to talk to him is something indescribable," said the 26-year-old driver.

"We talked about the importance of sport for young people as it represents a fitness centre not only for the body but also for the mind, and about the importance of growing up with solid values."

Giovinazzi was accompanied in Rome by Sauber Holding AG president Pascal Picci and several executives from Alfa Romeo.

Alfa Romeo Racing will launch its 2020 car and season in the Barcelona pitlane on February 19, the first day of pre-season testing.

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.