Sirotkin gets reserve driver role with Renault

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GP2 racer Sergey Sirotkin has been signed by Renault as the team's third driver for 2017, with the Russian running once again in GP2 this year.

The 21-year-old, who enjoyed a run with Renault at Sochi in 2016 and then again at Interlagos, is now a full member of the French squad. He will be attending all F1 races and entrusted with yet-to-be confirmed practice sessions.

"We had a very good experience working together last year and having this as a base we will make a step forward with a new role in 2017," said Sirotkin.

"FP1 sessions will be part of my programme. I know these sessions are an important element of race preparation for the team.

"So my duty in these is to fulfil all their targets, rather than just trying to set the fastest time I can at any given moment."

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The Russian admits his target mid-term is to find a race seat for 2018.

"I don't think anyone would be surprised if I said that my main target for the 2018 season is to have a seat as a Formula 1 race driver and that's what I'm working towards," Sirotkin said.

"I'm here to learn and be an asset to the team as well as show that I am worthy of further opportunities."

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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.