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Markelov feeling the pressure ahead of Russian GP debut

Artem Markelov has been warded a free practice outing with Renault next weekend at Sochi, and while the 24-year-old is looking forward to the opportunity he's also a bit wary of the pressure it will bring.

Artem, who is currently fourth in the FIA Formula 2 Championship with the Russian Time squad, will combine his Renault FP1 duties in Sochi with the penultimate round of this year's F2 championship.

As worked up as he is ahead of his official F1 debut, the Russian admits he'll need to keep his head down and focus on the job at hand.

"I’m excited for the weekend, but there’s going to be a lot of pressure from the fans, friends and family because there will be a lot of people who haven’t seen me race live before," said Markelov.

"I’m really looking forward to it, but I need to calm down and focus on doing my job well.

"I don’t know the circuit so well, as I’ve only done two race weekends there and that was at the start of my GP2 career. The results weren’t great, so this year I aim to do well."

Hulkenberg aims for another 'strong finish' at Sochi

Markelov will undoubtedly have a lot on his plate in Sochi as he dovetails his F1 and F2 commitments on Friday, but he aims first and foremost to enjoy the experience.

"It’s going to be very special, especially as it’s my first free practice session in Formula 1," he added.

"I’ve already done the young driver test at the Hungaroring in August, which was amazing, but this is going to be another really nice experience for me as I’ll be working closely with the team at a Grand Prix for the first time.

"I’ll be aiming to understand everything, take it a step at a time and then try to improve the car for the guys ahead of the rest of the weekend.

"Hopefully I can contribute to a successful weekend, that would be nice."

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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.