Palmer looking to keep up momentum in Brazil

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Jolyon Palmer believes Renault's pace last week in Mexico bodes well for the manufacture and his own hopes of delivering a good result in Brazil.

Palmer is in the challenging position of having to defend his race seat at Renault for next season with the French outfit still undecided on who it shall chose to partner new recruit Nico Hulkenberg.

The British driver's performance level has steadily gained momentum as the season draws to a close, and not a moment too soon in light of Palmer's need to impress his employer.

"I'm feeling good for Brazil as it should just carry on the good momentum that we've had in the second half the year," he said.

"It was a shame not to qualify last time out as we could have shown even better improvement.

"One of my best grid spots was in prospect, but we made up for it in the race. The race pace has been good for a long time now, qualifying pace has been good too.

"We had some decent battles with the McLarens in Mexico, so I think we can be pretty confident going into Brazil.

"The car is getting better every round still, and I'm driving pretty well and getting more and more out of it, so I think that combined with the fact Brazil is a nice track, means I'm hopeful for a positive weekend."

Palmer has deliberately chosen to focus on his immediate performance with Renault rather than worry about a future which may already be out of his hands. With that in mind, he'll be aiming for a top ten finish in order to add to his current single championship point.

"The season has gone so quickly. We just have to give it our all. I'd love to get another points finish before the year is out, so I will be pushing for that all the way for the final two races."

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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.