After just missing out on his first points finish of the 2017 season in last weekend's Austrian Grand Prix held at the Red Bull Ring, RenaultF1 driver Jolyon Palmer is ready to race in front of his home fans this weekend.
Palmer's home Grand Prix is none other than the British Grand Prix, held at the famous Silverstone circuit and Jo is confident that a maiden top ten finish of the season is within reach here on Sunday afternoon.
Is it exciting to race in your home Grand Prix?
I'm really looking forward to racing in front of the home crowd. I love the track and it's always a special weekend at Silverstone. People always turn out in huge numbers and they are very passionate which really pushes us drivers. My first Grand Prix at Silverstone was when I was six and a fan, so it's special to be there with lots of reminiscing. It's always a great experience.
Do you like the circuit?
It's certainly the Formula 1 track that I know the best so I'm hoping that gives me an extra boost along with all the home support. There are lots of high speed corners which are cool to drive and a lap has a really good flow to it. I had my first race at Silverstone when I was fifteen so I know the place pretty well! I've been on the podium a few times throughout my career including a win in Formula Two and second and third places in GP2.
What are your post-race feelings from Spielberg?
It was a solid race and I was pushing like hell at the end. We were so close to the points, but it was another eleventh place! Overall, it was a decent weekend. I made a small mistake in qualifying which put us out in Q1, with the times so very close in Austria. The race was quite good, but I was behind Lance Stroll for over 40 laps, and I just wasn't able to pass him no matter how hard I tried! Silverstone's my home race so I am excited for that. I am going there after a fairly positive weekend, so I am aiming to keep the momentum and get those points.
