F1i's Top Shots of 2018 from XPB's Laurent Charniaux

Mexico - The Hulk prepares for battle

Every driver has their own pre-race ritual, be it a mental or physical habit that helps them focus, prepare or keep their stress in check. And it's usually conducted in a moment of isolation, like the one enjoyed here by Nico Hulkenberg in the Renault garage just before the Mexican Grand Prix.

"Candid shots of drivers are great because on occasion they give us a sense of closeness or intimacy," says Laurent. "But capturing the spontaneity of a moment and getting the perfect shot at the right split second also requires good observation and a bit of anticipation.

"Actually, looking at this shot of Hulk relaxing his eyes, one would perhaps assume that it had been taken after the race. It was minutes before he headed back to the grid. He was just chilling on his own, preparing to do battle."