Hulkenberg looking for 'balance and harmony' in Hungary

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Renault's Nico Hulkenberg can't wait to take off on a well-deserved holiday, but before the summer break the German is looking a achieve another flawless performance next weekend in Hungary.

Hulkenberg left Hockenheim with a fifth-place finish under his belt following an impeccable performance on home ground. It was the 30-year-old's best result with Renault since joining the team in 2017, and Hungary will hopefully be about sustaining his momentum.

"Fifth at my home race was obviously an excellent result for me and the team," he enthused.

"It’s my best finish since joining Renault, so we can take encouragement from that and look to build on this in Hungary.

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"We’re clearly in a difficult fight for fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship and it’s been a tough battle so far, especially through these summer European rounds.

"We have a lot of hard work ahead of us, but I’m confident we can come out on top and I’m up for the challenge."

The Hungaroring's challenges have been well chronicled, with drivers underlining the importance of rhythm and flow around a tight and twist layout that takes no prisoners.

"I really enjoy Hungary, it’s a good Grand Prix weekend," he said.

"It’s the final round before the summer break, something I’m very much looking forward to after a busy and hard-fought string of European races.

"In terms of the circuit itself, it’s very technical with some fun corner combinations, which come thick and fast," he explained.

"All the corners combine in a way, and one small error means the next corner is compromised. It’s important to strike that balance and harmony with the car."

Budapest's typically hot weather must also be factored into the mix, insists Hulkenberg.

"It’s usually a physical Grand Prix, very hot and busy at the wheel," says the Renault charger.

"It’s a race where fitness is key, more so than some races and that’s a challenge I relish. It’s an interesting place, a nice final city to visit before the summer break.

"The fans are always passionate in Hungary and they always enjoy the Grand Prix weekend."

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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.