Hulkenberg 'instrumental' in Renault's progression - Abiteboul

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On the eve of Nico Hulkenberg's last race with Renault, team boss Cyril Abiteboul praised the German for playing an "instrumental" role in the French team's progress in F1.

This week's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will close the curtain on Hulkenberg's relationship with Renault, but sadly the season finale may also be the 32-year-old's last start in F1, following the German driver's inability to find a seat for 2020.

A veteran of 176 Grands Prix, Hulkenberg was recruited by Renault in 2017, a year after the manufacture's return to Grand Prix racing as a works team.

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Abiteboul paid tribute to the Hulk's contribution, underlining both the driver's talent and experience.

"[Nico’s] contribution has been instrumental in our reconstruction and progression,” said Abiteboul.

“We have harnessed his experience and ability to deliver strong results and he has played an important role in Renault’s Formula 1 journey.

"We want to ensure we end our time together with the best result possible."

Hulkenberg scored 149 points during his three-year spell with Renault, a period the 2015 Le Mans winner looks back on with fondness.

"It’s been three memorable years for me at Renault," Hulkenberg said

"There have been highs and lows, but I’ve enjoyed my time as a driver here. We’ve had some great results and some ‘nearly’ moments, all of which I’ll remember for a very long time.

"I’d like to thank everyone at the team including my engineers and mechanics for all their effort over the last 61 races.

"We have one more to go and we’ll be giving it our all for the best possible result."

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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.