Vasseur: results just the visible part of the iceberg

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Renault heads to Sepang after achieving its second points finish in Singapore. While the result was certainly nothing to write home about, team boss Fred Vasseur still viewed the performance as a positive.

The French outfit has endured a difficult season to date, probably a lot more challenging than anticipated, but Vasseur insists its motivation remains undeterred.

"The motivation is always there but it’s that much more rewarding when the outcome of a race weekend is positive," said Vasseur.

"This has been a long and hard season so far and we're all at the start of a long journey so a positive result is warmly welcomed."

Asked about Renault's prospects for the remainder of the season, Vasseur emphasized the outfit's need to improve on all levels while especially targeting next seasons' requirements.

"We must continue to work on improving all areas, however we have particular focus on those areas of car and team performance which are relevant for next season.

"So for the car, areas like reliability and improving our systems of understanding tyre performance are applicable. Also, for the team, areas like pit stops are crucial and we saw how well we are performing in this area with some exceptional stops from our crew in Singapore. "

On paper, Renault's results appear relatively poor compared to expectations, but once again the French squad's management is keen to remind everyone that not all progress is visible and that the team is working towards its long-term goal of becoming successful once again in Grand Prix racing.

"What we can witness during a race weekend is only the visible part of the iceberg. There is a huge amount of work going on behind the scenes from recruitment to restructuring and physical infrastructure improvement and expansion.

"This is a long term project and we have to go through this planning and development phase in order to reap the benefits in the future. What everyone sees on television on a Sunday afternoon is just one aspect of a Formula 1 team. We are happy that there is strong progress being made."

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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.