Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsForce India

Perez looking to keep up momentum

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Force India's Sergio Perez will be seeking to pick up where he left off in next weekend's US Grand Prix in Austin.

The Mexican driver reaped the benefits of a bold tyre strategy and a coming together between Valtteri Bottas and Kimi Raikkonen to capture third place in Russia, and he will be looking capitalize on that momentum in Texas.

“Getting back on the podium in Sochi was an amazing feeling and seeing my crew below the podium is an image that will stay with me forever," Perez said.

"They work so hard every day to give me a competitive car and I am really enjoying my time with the team."

Force India's VJM08 contender has demonstrated steady progress in the hands of its capable drivers, with further upgrades scheduled for Mexico, Perez' home race.

"It's been an interesting season so far and we are doing a great job, so our focus needs to be on keeping it up for the rest of the season."

Force India hopes to sign off upgrade by Mexico

The Austin venue, which F1 will be visiting for the fourth time since the race's return to the GP calendar in 2012, is much appreciated by F1 drivers who enjoy the challenging layout as much as the lively atmosphere, and Sergio Perez is no exception.

"Austin is a great place to race," confirms the Mexican. "It has been my home race for several years, before the return of the Mexican Grand Prix, and the circuit is great fun for both fans and drivers."

"The city is very cool and there is so much happening during Grand Prix week. When I step into the cockpit and see all the Mexican flags and the fans in the stands it’s an incredible boost for me."

"The track has some special parts, especially the first sector and the uphill turn one. You can take a few different lines through the corner and you can brake really late for it, which makes it a good place to overtake. The whole of the first sector is very fun to drive with a lot of quick corners."

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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.