Perez earns himself a strong fifth in Singapore

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Sergio Perez celebrated his new contract with Force India with a strong run to P5 in Sunday's Singapore Grand Prix.

The Mexican enjoyed a sensational start, rocketing from P12 on the grid to P4 on the opening as he avoided the commotion at the first corner.

He then settled down for the evening, relinquishing a spot to Carlos Sainz's Toro Rosso but achieving nevertheless another strong result for himself and the Silverstone-based outfit.

"I’m really pleased to come away from such a challenging evening with fifth place.

Perez confirmed at Force India for 2018!

"So many things happened during the race, especially on lap one when it was so difficult to see anything because of the spray.

"At the same time, I’m a little disappointed that we missed out on a podium because I think the second safety car period didn’t help our strategy.

"We started the race on the full wet tyre, but we had to switch early to the intermediate tyres under the Safety Car and I lost valuable track position.

"Even so, it’s still a great day and a good recovery after a difficult qualifying session yesterday.

"This result helps our fourth position in the championship and continues my record of always scoring points in Singapore."

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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.