Hulkenberg hoping to build on Monaco momentum

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Force India's Nico Hulkenberg is hoping to pick up pretty much where he left off when the German ventures out on to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal on Friday.

Hulkenberg enjoyed a competitive Grand Prix weekend in Monte-Carlo, although a frustrating one, believing his P6 finish was at the lower range of what he should have been achieved in the Principality.

"Monaco was a frustrating weekend for me," Hulkenberg said.

"Despite scoring a very good sixth place, we missed a big opportunity to be even higher up. The car felt great all week and we really found the sweet spot.

"I think we can carry this performance into Canada and be just as competitive. It’s almost a street track and you need to really lean on the car to get the lap time."

Twelve months ago, Hulkenberg took a weekend off from Grand Prix racing and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans for Porsche. But conflicting schedules mean the Force India driver won't be able to defend his victory in the Sarthe, although he's very happy to race in North America.

"The week in Montreal is always one of the best of the year. You can see how much Canada loves Formula 1 because the whole city embraces the race and the locals give us a very warm welcome.

"There’s a huge buzz around town and a lot of events that create a special atmosphere. I really enjoy driving in Montreal. "

Hulkenberg believes tyre strategies, and a tendency to go aggressive on that front, will most probably prove a crucial factor in securing a good result on Sunday.

"It’s a challenging track – you need to attack the kerbs and get really close to the walls. It’s hard to overtake there, but the final chicane is definitely the best opportunity.

"There is also a big emphasis on braking performance and traction out of the low-speed corners. The tyre choices are at the softer end of the range, so there will be some aggressive strategies, but these tyres worked well for us in Monaco."

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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.