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"We should have done a better job", laments Vettel

Sebastian Vettel concluded his day of running believing he missed an opportunity of gaining pole position because Ferrari failed to improve in the session while its rivals found more speed.

In the final minutes of qualifying, Vettel aborted his ultimate run, claiming on the radio to his team that his car "just got worse".

"We started well, the confidence was there, and then we seemed to struggled," Vettel explained.

"We just didn't extract the grip that was there. Unlike everyone else we didn't get any quicker. I think we should have, could have done a better job. It is what it is, so we have to focus on tomorrow."

Despite the disappointment, Vettel does not believe the Scuderia's current level of performance lags its main rivals, notably Mercedes and Red Bull, by much.

"I don't think we are as far behind as it looks, I think we had a crack at pole today but not if we don't extract the best out of ourselves.

"The car is quick, no doubt, and we started well this morning. Thursday we were on the wrong foot but nothing special that the people in front have done that we could not have done – but we didn't do it, so there is the problem."

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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.