'We'll need help from others to get points', says Alonso

It was another near miss for McLaren-Honda in qualifying today in Russia, with both cars failing to make it into Q3.

While Jenson Button was the closest to enter the top-10, Fernando Alonso finished the session down in 14th, just a tenth behind his team mate. But the Spaniard is still seeing progress.

"I think we have been more competitive this weekend," he said.

"Unfortunately in qualifying it was very tight and two tenths can mean Q3 or 14^th and we are the 14^th guy unfortunately. We have been unlucky but hopefully we can recover the places and be in the points."

Alonso is confident of a good showing in tomorrow's race, but also admits that McLaren-Honda may have to count on the misfortune of others to collect any good points.

"Jenson will be a good fight and we'll see with the others. We are definitely more competitive race after race and I think the points will be a possibility.

"It will depend on the strategy, and we'll need some help from the others. In China we were competitive but 22 cars finished the race so we'll need some help tomorrow.

"I think this race helps us grow and move forward but the points are still difficult to do. There are competitive teams out there.

"We will try our best but we need some help from the others. We are not fighting for the championship so our aim is to keep improving and be competitive as soon as possible."

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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.