Stroll back in control and feeling confident at Williams

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Williams rookie Lance Stroll has put the last two days of testing to good use, feeling confident behind the wheel following last week's mishaps.

The Canadian suffered several off track excursions in the first round of pre-season testing, the last of which damaged the team's FW40 which in turn restricted running.

But Stroll didn't put a foot wrong yesterday or today, ending his afternoon with a tally of 85 laps and having accomplished his first race distance simulation.

"There were a lot of positive things from last week that we brought into this week," Stroll said.

"I don't think people really see it because of the issues that happened, but I felt already confident last week in the car, and this week I feel really confident in the car.

"Just getting to grips with it, but tomorrow's another big day and looking forward to learning some more tomorrow and bringing it to Melbourne."

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The 18-year-old said he was unfazed by the criticism directed towards him in the aftermath of a troubled first week of testing as he remains focused on the present and the task at hand.

"It's challenging," Stroll said.

"A bit more for me, it's my rookie year with not much experience. But I think for everyone you know, it's new for everyone. A lot of grip. I think precision is very important since the cars are a lot quicker.

"But it's good. It's a good challenge physically and just driving the cars is harder, so that's cool. I think it's all exciting stuff for the year ahead."

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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.