9:02 – GPUpdate.net continues its mid-season review by reflecting on Renault’s slow and steady progress since its full-time return, with wildly contrasting fortunes for drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Jolyon Palmer.
Renault: 6/10
Championship: 8th
WCC points: 26
Best race: 6th (2 x HUL)
Best qualifying: 6th (1 x HUL)
Fastest laps: 0
Qualifying duel: HUL 11 – 0 PAL
Renault has so far failed to meet its pre-season expectations, though is at least making progress. The R.S.17 is undoubtedly an improvement on its unloved, cobbled together predecessor, and recent gains, including a revised floor, have lifted the manufacturer towards the front of the midfield, after initially lacking in race pace compared to one-lap performance.