Video: Mark Webber named Grand Marshal for 2017 Le Mans

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Fresh from his investiture as an Officer of the Order of Australia last week, former WEC champion Mark Webber has been appointed Grand Marshal for Le Mans this year.

The ex-Formula 1 driver and Grand Prix winner is just getting used to life as a retiree after hanging up his helmet at the end of last season following three years with Porsche in the World Endurance Championship.

Aussie Grit will succeed colleague Alex Wurz as the man who will have the honour of launching the race on June 17 which promises to deliver another thrilling battle between Porsche and Toyota.

Check out the video below for Webbo's reaction to the news.

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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.