Jolyon Palmer fears his F1 dream is already over as his mistakes are criticised too much
Brit fights for his Renault place as Nico Hulkenberg will join - but says Red Bull, McLaren & Mercedes rookies are 'sheltered'
JOLYON PALMER fears his F1 dream could be over — because his mistakes are unfairly put under the microscope.
The Brit and Renault team-mate Kevin Magnussen are locked in a fight to keep their place now Nico Hulkenberg is joining from Force India for 2017.
Palmer, 25, made it into Formula One without any major team funding — and claims it means he now gets less protection.
He said: “A few of the rookies who have come in recently have had the backing of Red Bull, McLaren or Mercedes and they have been sheltered a little bit.
“Every little mistake I have made has been micro analysed to see if it will cost me my seat, so it is understandable I make errors.”
Palmer was 12th in Japan and 13th in America, and needs to shine at this weekend’s Mexico Grand Prix to boost hopes of earning a second season.
He added: “I’d love to be staying but the team are waiting to decide on the second seat.
Kevin and I are trying our hardest in difficult car — it is not a good feeling.
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“But I have improved a lot and know I have more to give in F1.”
Meanwhile, Malaysian F1 bosses plan to take a “temporary break” from hosting races due to mounting losses.
Officials are to meet this week to discuss the Malaysian Grand Prix’s future, with its contract up in 2018.
Razlan Razali, chief executive of the Sepang International Circuit where it is held, said: “Locals are not buying tickets. If there is no economic value, why should we continue?”