Look Mom, no appendix (but still plenty of speed)!

Carlos Sainz defied the odds – and perhaps doctors orders – to claim on Sunday in Melbourne a sensational victory for Ferrari and his third career win in F1.

Just two weeks ago in Saudi Arabia, the Spaniard was forced to trade his racing suit for a hospital gown after suffering an acute case of appendicitis and undergoing emergency surgery.

But Sainz was back with a vengeance in the land down under where he followed up his masterclass in speedy recovery with an equally impressive on-track display on race day.

Showcasing his massive abdominal bandage in the post-race celebrations alongside his old friend Lando Norris, Sainz reminded us that sometimes the biggest setbacks lead to the sweetest victories.

Oh, and also that appendices are overrated...

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.