Hulkenberg leaves Force India with points and happy memories

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A points finish assured that Nico Hulkenberg did his part along with team mate Sergio Perez in helping Force India achieve fourth place in the Constructors standings.

Vijay Mallya's outfit was mathematically still vulnerable to a miraculous Williams come-back in Abu Dhabi, but Force India's drivers capped off their season with another consistent run into the points.

Renault-bound Nico Hulkenberg, despite an isolated evening run around the Yas Marina circuit, was happy to end his spell with the team on a high note.

"It was quite a simple and lonely race actually, mainly racing with my teammate because the top six cars were just out of reach," said Hulk who collided with Max Verstappen shortly after the start, fortunately without terminal consequences

"Turn 1 was quite interesting because I got hit by Max Verstappen, which damaged the floor of my car and made things a bit more difficult. Fortunately we had the pace to hold position and bring home the result.

"It's great to end my time at Force India result and help the team finishing fourth in the championship. Everybody deserves congratulations and big credit for the amazing job this year.

The German paid tribute to his team of choice for the past three years, insisting he had grown as a driver over that period.

"I leave this team with lots of happy memories and it always be a part of my life. I've learned a huge amount here and they have made me a better racing driver.

"We've grown up together and I'm proud of what we have achieved."

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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.