NICO Hulkenberg has set his sights on ending a poor run of results as Renault bid to keep hold of fourth place in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship.

The Enstone-based team’s bid to be crowned ‘the best of the rest’ behind Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull is under threat from the Banbury-prepared Haas, who have closed the gap to eight points.

A poor run of form has seen Hulkenberg score only one point in his last six races, while teammate Carlos Sainz’s best result over the same period has been eighth.

With Haas eyeing a strong haul at their home grand prix at Austin, United States, on Sunday, Renault know they need to get back on track.

“It’s been a tough couple of races, but we remain positive and eager to bounce back for the last four weekends of the season,” said Hulkenberg, who was forced to retire at Suzuka a fortnight ago.

“Japan didn’t go to plan, but we’re aiming to learn from what happened to be best prepared for Austin.

“I’m determined to be in the points for the last four races – as is Carlos on the other side of the garage – so it’s going to be maximum effort to extract the most from the current package and ensure we keep fourth place in the constructors’ championship.”

Sainz, who was tenth in Japan, added: “After scoring a point in Japan, I’m feeling hopeful for Austin.

“The circuit should suit the car better than Suzuka, so we remain positive.

“We have to keep fighting.

“We know the second half of the season has been tough for everyone involved with the team, but it shows we have a lot of spirit.”