Bottas capitalizes on Williams potential

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Valtteri Bottas enjoyed a good run in qualifying this afternoon at Sochi, rewarding himself and Williams with the third fastest time.

A result which means he'll line up alongside Nico Rosberg as a result of Sebastian Vettel's 5-place grid penalty.

On a track which was anticipated to suit the Williams' outright power and aerodynamics, Bottas was in the mix from the start.

"I'm really pleased with how it all went," a smiling Bottas said.

"This weekend has been positive, we have some new bits on the car and this is also a good track for us. I'm glad we could maximize the qualifying today.

"But tomorrow is what counts, and so far my Sundays haven't been so great but I'm sure tomorrow we'll have a good chance to have a good one."

Despite his good afternoon quali, Bottas is wishing for more, hoping for the opportunity to race consistently at the very top end with rivals Mercedes and Ferrari.

"Obviously we always want to be higher. This season it is extremely difficult to try and beat Ferrari and Mercedes.

"We're trying to close the gap, so it's nice that today we are clear of Red Bull and Toro Rosso who were challenging us in the last few races.

"I'm pleased with today's result, it puts us in a good position tomorrow to get some good points.

"It was all about the team work and bringing some updates here, so the people at the factory are doing a great job."

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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.