Palmer focused on racing into the points at Silverstone

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Jolyon Palmer would be the first to admit that his maiden Formula 1 season has been anything but clear sailing.

In addition to learning the ropes of Grand Prix racing, the 25-year-old is also forced to compose with a currently uncompetitive car supplied by Renault. His 12th place finish in Austria last Sunday wasn't much to boast about, but the Brit believes points are getting closer.

He shall therefore arrive in Silverstone targeting a top-10 finish on home soil, which should provide him with an extra boost of motivation.

"I can’t wait to race in front of my home crowd," said Palmer.

"I love the track and it’s always a special weekend at Silverstone. The crowd is huge and so passionate even if you’re not British but for a British driver it takes on an extra level.

"I was frustrated to be just shy of the points in Austria so there’s an extra motivation as the target is very close.

"If the safety car had played out differently in Spielberg we could have been in the top ten, but nevertheless I was pleased with my performance, with how the car was feeling and how the team was working. We’re all moving in the right direction."

While a home race always provides a bit of extra motivation, Palmer insists a significant result would be the fruit of his own and his team's progress rather than any particular edge provided by the venue itself.

"I’m always focused for any result! It’s true I’m feeling more and more confident from the last few races. I’ve been improving myself but also getting the car more as I want it.

"If we can find just a little bit more from the car then we can get into Q2 and from there you’re nearer to points potential in the race.

On the subject of the track itself, there are no corners or lines in the Silverstone tarmac which remain unknown to the 2014 GP2 champion and Renault driver.

"I had my first race at Silverstone when I was fifteen so I know the place pretty well! I’ve been on the podium in every category I’ve raced in there and I’ve won there too.

"It’s certainly been a good track for me till now so I hope that continues. I’ve got great memories so far; I’m hoping to create the most memorable memory with a terrific drive into the points there in 2016!"

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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.