Sirotkin 'needs adrenaline' and wants Williams seat

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Sergey Sirotkin is hoping he is now a contender for Williams' second seat despite all signs pointing to Robert Kubica racing for the British team next year.

The Russian driver was given a run in the Grove-based outfit's FW40 at this week's Pirelli tyre test in Abu Dhabi.

Whether Williams has a genuine interest in the 22-year-old's services or whether the team just took in a lavish one-off payment from Sirotkin's backers SMP is unclear, but he acquitted himself well at the test and wants the coveted drive.

"What is certain is that I am not here at the test to enjoy the sun," he said on Wednesday in Yas Marina.

"I cannot hope for a Renault seat in the immediate future, but it's a privilege to be able to work with different teams at the highest level.

Hulkenberg and Permane back Sirotkin for F1 drive

"It's really hard not to have a seat and just be the reserve," he added.

"I know I'm learning a lot but I need adrenaline."

The Russian obviously met Kubica this week, and even had a lengthy chat with Bobby-K about their respective experiences behind the wheel of the FW40.

"I met Robert for the first time and he's very open and nice," he said.

"He happily talked to me and we could compare our times even if that doesn't mean much. The main thing for him was to have been able to drive at a good level.

"I think what he has done is really exceptional," Sirotkin admitted.

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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.