Nico Hülkenberg | Exclusive Interview

In an unique interview with Paddock Journal, Audi’s first manufacturing unit Method 1 driver, Nico Hülkenberg, emphasises the significance of Ayao Komatsu’s contribution to his present F1 group and the way F1’s notion in Germany can develop once more.

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Haas has a brand new group principal for this season. Has the influence of Ayao’s work already been seen, and is the group on the right track?

I believe Ayao is doing a superb job, and clearly, many new issues are coming at him after he switched to the group principal place. It’s not all concerning the engineering and technical facet anymore, however he additionally has to cope with the industrial elements of working a Method 1 group.

I do know that he’s bought lots on his plate. He has already made some good modifications to our technical infrastructure and moved some issues round. It’s been optimistic, and we’re on the right track.

I do know he’s bought lots on his plate.

Nico Hülkenberg

You’ll be becoming a member of the Audi challenge subsequent 12 months. What do you consider F1’s notion in Germany?

From my perspective, I’ve observed a resurgence of curiosity in Method 1 in Germany. It’s essential to do not forget that Germany has at all times had a powerful presence within the sport, with the Schumachers, Seb, Rosberg, and Mercedes. We’ve constantly carried out at a excessive stage, and I imagine this pattern will proceed.

It’s anticipated that, ultimately, there will likely be a saturation impact. We’ve seen that, and perhaps we’ve been via that cycle. F1 has modified a bit for the reason that new homeowners took over; they’ve reworked it and made it extra funky and entertaining. It’s once more on the map in Germany, and I’m optimistic about its future. Audi’s entry may even contribute to the game’s recognition in Germany.

Wanting again to 2010, what are probably the most important modifications in your driving type now? What are the principle enhancements? What’s made you such a rounded driver now?

It’s a steady course of for any driver, not only for me. You continuously attempt to enhance your driving expertise and enter.

And yeah, it simply takes time. In any case these years with totally different generations of vehicles, you continuously continue to learn, adjusting, and enhancing your self. So it’s like in any sport: whether or not you’re a tennis participant, golfer, or basketball participant, you at all times attempt to enhance your recreation and get an edge over the competitors.

Fernando Alonso talked about a number of occasions that you just’re the most effective drivers on the grid. How does it really feel to obtain compliments like this out of your rivals?

I imply, it’s good. It’s higher than mentioning you the opposite means round or not mentioning you in any respect. I suppose it’s an indication of respect, and now we have mutual respect.

We’re each type of two of the oldies on the grid proper now, holding up the oldie flag. However we nonetheless hit it off with the younger guys, so a number of extra years to return for each of us.

In all probability I’ll go to a match and watch it.

Nico Hülkenberg

As you talked about, you’ve bought loads of years left in your F1 profession, however what will likely be subsequent for you? Do you’ve got some post-F1 profession choices in thoughts?

I don’t know, and I don’t give it some thought, to be sincere, as a result of I’ve to be absolutely invested within the current to maximise the following couple of years.

I really feel like considering forward to the longer term or what I’d do afterwards could be a waste of power and time. I already know what I’m going to get as a result of the break I had gave me somewhat perception into what to anticipate if I finally retire. Nonetheless, don’t fear; I’ll discover stuff to maintain me busy and comfortable.

We’re in Monaco this weekend. Is Monaco nonetheless probably the most prestigious race on the calendar?

Completely, sure. I’ve lived in Monaco since 2015. This will likely be my eleventh Monaco Grand Prix, and I’ve watched the race many occasions rising up. Monaco is iconic; it’s all about custom. It’s a trip on a knife edge, difficult yearly, and one among my favorite tracks to drive.

I sit up for the trip and the problem.

Lastly, Germany goes to host Euro 2024 this summer season. Are you going to comply with the matches, and what do you count on from the German nationwide group?

I believe I’ll positively comply with. I’m not going to look at each recreation, however the German one’s for certain. I’ll in all probability go to a match and watch it. I haven’t been to a soccer recreation in a very long time, in order that looks as if a superb event. Alternatively, we’re additionally fairly busy in July, so let’s see.