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Bottas wakes up Milan to the sound of Alfa's 112th birthday

Valtteri Bottas was all suited and booted at the crack of dawn this morning in Milan, ready to take to the streets of the city where Alfa Romeo was born 112 years ago.

The legendary Quadrifoglio brand was introduced to the world in 1910, under the name Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili, or ALFA, and its racing history began to unfold at the outset of the company's foundation.

To commemorate its anniversary, Bottas drove an old-spec Sauber car draped in Alfa's colors through the streets of Milan, setting off from the world-famous Piazza Duomo and passing through the city's most iconic landmarks, including Piazza San Babila, Porta Nuova, the majestic Central Station and the futuristic City Life district.

The Finn ended is loud and early morning drive at Alfa Romeo’s new flagship store in via Gattamelata where in 1910 stood Portello, the manufacturer's very first production site.

Check out the gallery of pictures from Friday morning's celebrations.

Happy Birthday, Alfa Romeo!

©AlfaRomeo

 

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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