Hulkenberg sees 'only positives' in having Ricciardo at Renault

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Daniel Ricciardo's move to Renault will be a benefit both to the team and to himself says the Aussie's future team mate Nico Hulkenberg.

Formula 1 was rocked last Friday by the news of Ricciardo's switch from Red Bull Racing to the works French outfit in a bold two-year deal starting in 2019.

For Hulkenberg, a resident of Enstone since the beginning of 2016, Renault's capturing of the seven-time Grand Prix winner is a testimony to the manufacturer's commitment and ambitions in Formula 1.

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"I see this as absolutely positive. It shows how serious Renault are about attacking the Big Three: Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull," said the German driver who greeted Ricciardo with a message posted on Twitter:

"Welcome to the family Brooo.. 👊🏼 Looking forward to go hunting together next year! 😉"

Hulkenberg learned of the news last week while on holiday in Mallorca.

"Daniel is a great driver and a man who can do everything," he later told Germany's Bild.

"I do not have to hide from the challenge that awaits me this season, but for me, having such a great teammate is only positive, but it also shows how serious Renault is, if you're one of the drivers to get the top three in. "

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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.