Nico Hulkenberg Q&A: Australian Grand Prix
March 28, 2023
Nico looks ahead to this weekend's Australian Grand Prix, a circuit where he has five points-scoring finishes to his name so far.
The return of Australia last season after an enforced absence was welcomed by the entire paddock. Confirmed as a race location until at least 2035, what does Melbourne bring to Formula 1 and why is it a place everyone loves to come back to?
“Melbourne is a cool, vibrant place and although it’s a big journey for us all to get there, it’s always fun to travel and I’ve made lots of friends over the years. I’m looking forward to coming back.”
You haven’t raced in Australia since 2019 – is it a track location you enjoy and what track characteristics make it stand out in a busy calendar?
“The track has been modified slightly since I raced there last in 2019, they’ve opened up some of the corners, so I think it’s much more high-speed now. There’s a lot of DRS zones as well so I’m looking forward to going and learning the new high-speed Melbourne characteristics.”
From Jeddah to Melbourne – both offer the challenge of finding grip and unyielding walls. Do you like this combination or prefer “old-school” custom-built circuits with more options to find a racing line?
“I think generally in Formula 1 we have a good mixture of old-school and new modern tracks. Street circuits versus hybrid ones so honestly, I think we’re in a good place.”
There’s an extended break after Melbourne due to race cancellation. How useful is a break in the early part of the season for driver mentality and fitness – would you rather get into a rhythm or is it a good time to spend with the team away from the track?
“It wasn’t planned but we’ll take it. It will be good to be able to digest the first three races, regroup with the team and go again. I think ideally a big break so early in the season is not really what we’d wish for but then again, it’s the same for everyone.”