Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsWilliams

Williams set to rebound in Suzuka

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On the back of a mixed Singapore Grand Prix, where Valtteri Bottas came home 5th while Felipe Massa retied with a gearbox problem, Williams will be looking for a stronger display of performance around the challenging Suzuka track.

The 5.8km high speed layout is sure to provide a more favorable terrain for Williams compared to last weekend's twisty Marina Bay street circuit, and one where the British outfit will clearly set its sights on a podium finish.

"The Japanese Grand Prix is a great circuit and well suited to our car," said Williams performance chief Rob Smedley.

While Williams expected a difficult run in Singapore, in hindsight Smedley believes Bottas could have challenged Ferrari for a spot on the podium had the Finn been able to qualify better.

Williams drivers' first task in Japan will therefore to try and secure a higher position on the Suzuka grid alongside usual suspects Ferrari and Red Bull.

"In qualifying last year we showed great pace and dominated the second row," Smedley added. " The team continues to get stronger throughout this year and we can go back there expecting another good performance."

"It'll be important to capitalise on our car performance and score more points than our closest rivals."

Like many within the Formula 1 community, Williams and its drivers will be racing next weekend with the memory of Jules Bianchi close to heart.

"It’s one year since Jules’ accident so it will be difficult to head back there," acknowledged Smedley. "We will be remembering the incredible talent and great guy that he was."

Singapore Grand Prix - Quotes of the weekend

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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.