Sirotkin to get additional Friday outings with Renault

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Renault reserve driver Sergey Sirotkin will be taking over from Nico Hulkenberg in Friday's first practice session at Sochi, with the Russian set for more outings later this year.

The 21-year-old from Moscow is without a full-time race schedule this year after racing in GP2 for two years, but as part of sponsor SMP's young driver programme Sirotkin retains a link with Renault.

"We have several Friday practices planned for Sergey for the course of the season," a SMP Racing spokesperson told Sportbox.

"We already know how many, but I cannot tell you."

Sirotkin's ambition is to step up to a full race seat at Renault for 2018.

The Russian hopeful had been linked to a race seat at Sauber a while back, but that opportunity failed to materialize.

"Something can always go better, but somehow life is moving in the right direction," Sirotkin said.

"It's stupid to complain, especially as this year I have taken a step closer to my goal."

A goal which will begin Friday morning in Sochi for Sergey.

"I’m proud of being a Russian driver so to be in front of thousands of Russian fans is always going to be a highlight," he enthused.

"That said, I would settle with being in the car anywhere ! Of course, there will be a lot of attention in the press and media, and many people I know will be there - which is always nice - however my focus is fully on track.

"I’m there to do the best job possible and focus on the entire race weekend not just FP1 when I’m in the car."

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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.