Hulkenberg takes P7 as 'a nice surprise'

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Renault's Nico Hulkenberg extracted pretty much the most from his car in qualifying this afternoon for the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.

The German will line up P7 on tomorrow's grid, a results which underlines the French team's positive relative performance.

"When we started driving in FP3 I felt immediately positive and happy with the car and its balance," Hulkenberg said.

"It felt better and more together than in Melbourne, and perhaps this track suits our car a little better too.

"I think from FP3 to qualifying, we were able to improve the car; I was happy, I was confident and it was a nice surprise when I heard the position over the radio."

FIA takes precautionary safety measures ahead of Sunday's race

Like most of its mid-field rivals, Renault isn't as well prepared as it hoped to be after yesterday's washout of FP2.

But the Hulk will just draw on his valuable experience and adapt to whatever circumstances prevail on race day.

"The forecast says rain for tomorrow, which brings its own challenges, but whatever happens I’ll approach the race open minded and do my best."

Gallery: All the pictures from Saturday's action in Shanghai

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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.