Hulkenberg gets B-spec engine… and a grid penalty

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Renault has opted to upgrade Nico Hulkenberg's R.S.19 to its latest B-spec engine, a change that will unfortunately equate to a five-spot grid penalty for the German.

Renault supplied its new unit to Daniel Ricciardo in France because the change was free of any penalties for the Aussie.

Hulkenberg's grid demotion in Austria is inevitable however as reliability issues earlier this season had already boosted his ICE count to four elements.

Sainz and Albon hit with grid penalties in Austria

Hulkenberg concluded his day of running on Friday well out of the top-ten, puzzled by his car's lack of pace.

"The car lacked pace and there’s a bit of a question mark as to why," said the German.

"While we’re slow on the timesheets, I didn’t feel totally comfortable at the wheel. We need to investigate what’s gone on as it seems a bit odd today.

"Conditions were tough, especially in the afternoon with high track temperatures and wind in places. A difficult day for us, but we’ll work hard tonight to find some solutions for tomorrow."

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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.