Sir Frank Williams discharged from hospital, on the mend

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The Williams family and the motorsport community at large will head into the Christmas weekend with the good news that F1 legend Sir Frank Williams has been discharged from hospital.

Last week, the family announced that the eponymous co-founder of F1's third most successful team in its history had been admitted to hospital, although no details were given for why Sir Frank had fallen ill although it was indicated at the time that the 78-year-old team owner was in stable condition.

However, on Thursday afternoon, Williams Racing posted some good news on social media regarding the former team owner.

"We're delighted to say that Sir Frank has been discharged from hospital and is now on the mend at home," read the team's statement.

"The Williams family would like to thank everyone for their support during this difficult time, and to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."

Sir Frank, who celebrated 50 years of team ownership in F1 in 2019, handed over the reins of the Grove-based outfit last summer to US investment firm Dorilton Capital which acquired the Williams family's stake.

In the wake of the sale, Claire Williams stepped down as Williams' deputy team principal, a role she had fulfilled since March 2013.

Sir Frank stopped traveling to F1's races in 2016 after suffering a case of pneumonia, but the racer never refrained from making the trip to Silverstone each year to visit his team during the British GP weekend.

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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.