Grosjean names the two F1 race wins that got away

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Romain Grosjean is among Formula 1's most experienced drivers but has yet to secure a Grand Prix win. It came close for the Frenchman however, twice...

With six full seasons and 125 races under his belt, Grosjean is as seasoned as almost anyone on the grid, but that elusive first win remains out of touch for the Haas driver. And he knows why.

"You need to have one of the two best cars to win a race, I know that, but I believe if you give me that car I can win," Grosjean told ESPN.

"There's still no reason why I can't be world champion one day."

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Before championships come race wins however. With an assortment of ten podiums to his name – all achieved with Lotus, there have been opportunities to take top honours. Two races - or near misses - stand out in Romain's memory.

"I have had two Grands Prix where I should have won the race but luck never turned my way," he says.

"In Germany, 2013 the race was won clearly and then a Marussia blew the engine, parked on the side and the car rolled backwards onto the track. There was a Safety Car and Vettel won.

"Then there was Valencia, 2012 where I could have won the race and the alternator failed."

A glimmer of frustration likely simmers deep down, but Grosjean won't dwell on the past, insisting his 125-race track record reflects his legitimacy. He is among the top 20 best drivers in the world, because he deserves to be.

"I think I've done enough,” he simply says.

There is however, more to to do. And Haas, with its fast and efficient VF-18 charger will hopefully offer many opportunities for Grosjean to boost his credentials.

"This year the car is very fast, I believe we have a very good baseline, a very good package and we can do very well,” he said.

"The team atmosphere is amazing, the cars are fast and we're fighting at the front. Obviously we would like to fight for the win a bit more but I'm enjoying my time."

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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.