Ricciardo not surprised to be 'up there on the timesheets'

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Renault's Daniel Ricciardo clocked in second fastest in Friday's FP2 session at Spa, but the strong performance needs to be repeated in qualifying insisted the Aussie.

Ricciardo's soft run on low fuel put the Renault charger within just 0.048s of the afternoon's pace setter, Red Bull's Max Verstappen, and also 0.048s clear of Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton.

However, a hydraulic issue brought Ricciardo's afternoon to an early end. But the problem didn't dampen the latter's positive feelings.

"It was another good FP2 as has been the case for us at the last few rounds. We have to do it tomorrow, though, as that’s when it counts," commented Ricciardo.

"Today was strong, even with the issue at the end. For safety, we pulled the car over as there’s no point taking risks with mechanical issues on Fridays.

"Our low fuel run was a good one. During the lap, I knew it felt good and sometimes you just know when the car’s working.

"I knew it was competitive and I wasn’t that surprised it was up there on the timesheets. It was a good day and we certainly understood a lot from it."

Belgian Grand Prix Free Practice 2 - Results

Renault chief race engineer Ciaron Pilbeam was also mostly satisfied with the team's day of work.

"We’re mostly happy with today’s running," said Pilbeam. "The morning session went smoothly and to plan.

"There was some rain before FP2, which meant most teams held back before going out on track but, by the time we went out, the track was completely dry, and it didn’t have a significant effect on our overall run plan. Both drivers are reasonably happy with the car today.

"Daniel’s Soft tyre run was competitive; however, we’ve seen that before on a Friday so I would say only that we are cautiously optimistic. Esteban was also happy with the balance on his car.

" Daniel’s long run was going well but, after a couple of laps, the car stopped on track with a problem.

"That interrupted everyone’s long runs, including Esteban’s, but his run on Mediums looked consistent. We have everything we need to look at tonight to work on our qualifying and race strategy."

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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.