Palmer wants to be fighting for points as Formula One season gets underway

The Southwater driver is looking to improve on his maiden season with Renault Sport Formula One Team in their new R.S.17 car.

The 26-year-old steadily improved as last season wore on, securing his one and only point at October’s Malaysian Grand Prix.

On this year, he said: “It’s great to be going into my second season as an F1 driver as I can use all my experience from last season. I know the tracks and I know what is possible from an F1 car.

“I want to be fighting for points whenever possible and I know that’s the aim of the team too. I have a great crew around me and it’s good to have Nico on board as I think we will work well together over the year.

“It’s going to be really interesting for the first few races as we learn how our car goes in race conditions and see how competitive we are relative to our opposition.

Ahead of the Melbourne race this Sunday, Palmer continued: “I’m feeling good and I can’t wait to race the R.S.17 for a full Grand Prix. This new generation of car is really awesome to drive and we have a great opportunity to take a strong step forward during the season ahead.

“I enjoyed driving the car in pre-season testing as the team have addressed all the areas we needed to improve from the R.S.16, and when you add the improvements made to everything that comes with the new regulations it’s a good place to be. I’m happy and positive and can’t wait to race.”