F1 News
After more than 60 races: Nico Hulkenberg prepares for final F1 race with Renault
Unless there's one last surprise left in the drivers market, Nico Hulkenberg will be leaving Formula 1 after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix this weekend. The German, who has completed 61 Grands Prix with Renault, will be replaced by Esteban Ocon. Realistically, there's nowhere for Hulkenberg to go.
With one final race, Hulkenberg looks back on his three seasons at Renault. The Hulk hasn't had the best season in 2019, but he played a crucial part in their rise to fourth place last time out.
"It’s been three memorable years for me at Renault. There have been highs and lows, but I’ve enjoyed my time as a driver here. We’ve had some great results and some ‘nearly’ moments, all of which I’ll remember for a very long time," Hulkenberg said.
"I’d like to thank everyone at the team including my engineers and mechanics for all their effort over the last 61 races. We have one more to go and we’ll be giving it our all for the best possible result."
Renault currently hold fifth place in the F1 world championship but will have something to fight for if Toro Rosso show could pace in Abu Dhabi. Toro Rosso need to outscore the French team by nine points to finish ahead. Hulkenberg knows what is ahead of him.
"Yas Marina is an interesting circuit. It’s a long lap with three contrasting sectors, which makes it difficult to find a rhythm. You aim to get comfortable straight away there and find a smooth balance on the car. There’s a sweet spot on set-up to find with a couple of straights and also some medium to high-speed corners, especially in the last sector. As always, we’ll be aiming for a good start on Friday to ensure we’re in the best position for the rest of the weekend," Hulkenberg added.