Raikkonen appointed Ambassador for Sport by Finland

The Finnish government bestowed upon Ferrari driver Kimi Raikkonen the honorary title of Ambassador of Sport at a Sport Gala in Helsinki Tuesday evening.

Raikkonen was the first ever recipient of the prestigious title which was granted to him by Prime Minster Juha Sipila during an evening when the driver's presence at the Gala was kept secret until the very last moment.

“I’m not that used to making formal speeches,” said Raikkonen.

“But I would like to wish all the best to the winners in every category, as well as those who missed out on the prizes this year.

"I would stress how important it has been in my case to have the support of my family and help from trustworthy colleagues and the people within the Ferrari team, with whom I have worked for so many years now."

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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.