Hulkenberg was recruited for the year 2023 to take over from Mick Schumacher, who had a tendency to be involved in accidents. Although Schumacher managed to earn points in his second season in F1, he also displayed a worrisome inclination to generate substantial expenses for the team due to damages.
During a period of three years, Hulkenberg frequently served as a substitute driver for Racing Point and Aston Martin. On three occasions, he was unexpectedly asked to take over the car due to drivers testing positive for COVID-19.
In 2020, Hulkenberg filled in for Sergio Perez at the Silverstone team during the British and 70th Anniversary grands prix at Silverstone. He achieved a third-place qualifying position in the latter race and secured a seventh-place finish. Additionally, he substituted for Lance Stroll in a race at the Nurburgring that same year.
In the beginning of 2022, the German was summoned to substitute for Sebastian Vettel in the first two races of that particular season.
Steiner reflected on his choice to sign Hulkenberg and expressed his concerns about the Rhinelander needing time to readjust to the daily tasks of being an F1 driver. However, his worries were soon alleviated.
“I’ve been quite impressed, to be honest. We chose him for a specific reason – his ability to drive a race car. The uncertainty arose from his three-year absence as a full-time driver; we wondered how long it would take for him to catch up,” Steiner clarified.
“He was present from the very beginning, so it didn’t require any additional time. This is highly commendable and quite impressive. Furthermore, he actively contributes to the team, which aligns with our goal of leveraging his expertise. I have consistently emphasized the importance of this aspect.”
Nico Hulkenberg, Haas F1 Team and Guenther Steiner, Team Principal, Haas F1 Team
Photo by: Andy Hone / Motorsport Images
“He achieved a Q3 position in approximately six or seven out of the first 11 races, which is quite impressive, don’t you think? Additionally, he has accumulated nine points, indicating his competence in racing.”
The car is the issue that requires improvement, thus we must focus on enhancing the car. I don’t believe we have a problem with the driver. Both the team and I are pleased with Nico, both professionally and personally.
Furthermore, Steiner elaborated on the fact that Hulkenberg swiftly integrated himself into the team and promptly established robust professional connections.
He further mentioned that the winner of the 2009 GP2 championship has relied on his extensive experience to handle challenging situations, understanding that contributing to the growth of Haas would require a long-term commitment.
Steiner expressed his astonishment at how swiftly he adapted to the team and grasped people’s understanding.
However, once more, we are discussing expertise, and he has been engaged in this activity for a significant duration. Nevertheless, it is also noteworthy how he approaches racing; he does so with the appropriate methodology and dedicates the necessary effort, without attempting to exceed his limits, you understand?
“He possesses precise knowledge of the tasks at hand. The expertise required is distinct – he understands it is not akin to making chocolate, lacking sweetness, thus necessitating a considerable amount of time.”
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