Grosjean to give final mid-field battle his all in Abu Dhabi

©WRI2

Romain Grosjean will be pulling out all the stops in Abu Dhabi as Haas goes all out in its quest to gain a spot or two on its rivals in the Constructors' standings.

The US outfit is currently eighth among the teams before the final round of the season, just two points behind Renault and six points adrift of Toro Rosso with all to play for between the three outfits.

Can Haas pull off an upset and roar past its two rivals?

"Of course, as long as the last checkered flag isn’t down, you can always improve," insists Grosjean.

"We’re still very much in the match with the guys in front of us, and they’ve been struggling a little bit recently.

"We’re going to give it our all in Abu Dhabi and just play it like it’s the world championship."

Haas sets 'success or failure' deadline in F1

A glitzy atmosphere coupled with the particularities of racing in the evening sets the Yas Marina venue apart on several fronts, with compromise a crucial factor around the 5.5km track.

"It’s a very nice venue with superb facilities," says the French driver.

"The most difficult thing in Abu Dhabi are the conditions between FP1 and FP2. You only actually have one session that is representative of the race and qualifying, and that’s FP2.

"That’s the only session where you’re going to get the same conditions as qualifying and the race. You do need to work there. It does make a big difference if it’s sunny or dark.

"It’s always about compromise and finding the best setup to go faster. You just have to find where you can find the lap time.

"That’s the key. You’re never going to be perfect in every corner, but you can try to be as good as you can over the lap."

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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.