More points in Ocon's line of sight

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Esteban Ocon will again tackle a track he has never raced on next weekend in China but that isn't deterring the Force India driver from aiming for points again.

The French driver heads to Shanghai after a solid 10th place finish in Melbourne. His settling in with Vijay Mallya's outfit is going according to plan but Ocon admits there's a lot to take in.

"In Melbourne I said that I am on a big learning curve and the same will be true in China," insists the 20-year-old.

"I still need to build my speed with the VJM10 – it’s about exploring the limits of the car and understanding how to manage the tyres during qualifying and the race.

"What we learned in Melbourne will certainly make things a bit easier this weekend, but you never stop learning in this sport."

"I’ve settled in nicely to this team and I’m working well with my engineers and my car crew. It’s important to feel comfortable and I like the way we do things.

"It’s a very open atmosphere and the team understands what I need from the car."

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Ocon is a total novice when it comes to China, having never raced at The Shanghai International Circuit although he was present at last years' race.

The more traditional tarck layout is better adapted to the VJM10's characteristics according to the Force India charger.

“I visited China last year but I’ve never driven at the Shanghai circuit, so it’s going to be another new track for me to learn on Friday."

"After the street circuit of Melbourne, it will be nice to go to a track which is the complete opposite with lots of open space.

" I think the car should be more suited to Shanghai, but it’s hard to know until we get there and drive. The goal, once again, is to score some points."

Check out Ocon's lap of Shanghai as he explains the topography of the Chinese venue.

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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.