Hülkenberg experience a big benefit for Sainz

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Carlos Sainz says racing alongside the experienced Nico Hülkenberg at Renault is a big benefit to his own expertise.

The 23-year-old kick-started his F1 career in 2015 at Toro Rosso alongside fellow rookie Max Verstappen, then was paired with Dany Kvyat when the Dutchman was promoted to Red Bull Racing.

Now, with the 135-race Hülkenberg at his side, Sainz is in a position to learn once again from his elder team mate and rival.

"It's interesting, especially already I've felt differences," says Sainz on his relationship with Hülkenberg.

Hulkenberg : 'Sainz important for Renault team development'

"Everything is going to help for sure, to be up against a guy that has been seven or eight years in Formula 1, and has really settled nicely into a team like Nico has over the last year.

"There's only things to learn and look out for."

Sainz also sees a healthy emulation at Renault, for the benefit of both the drivers and the team.

"I'm sure we can push each other hard and that's only going to bring the team forward," he adds.

"I think also Nico welcomes the challenge of having me next to him and it's just going to push the team forward.

"Already in feedback we have a lot of similarities and that's going to help everyone."

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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.