Nico Hulkenberg Q&A: Hungarian Grand Prix

Round 12 of the 2023 FIA Formula 1 World Championship takes MoneyGram Haas F1 Team to Budapest for the Hungarian Grand Prix. A great mix of cityscapes, a lively atmosphere and a circuit which resembles a karting track. Is this a location you’re excited to race at?

“It’s definitely a location I’m excited to race at. Typically, it was the last race before summer shutdown so it’s slightly different this year with Spa after, but normally it’s pretty hot. It’s a physical grand prix as well but a fun lap – very intense, especially the middle sector, which is just one corner after another, and you need to find a good rhythm there.”

The Hungaroring is considered to have ‘Monaco levels of downforce’. Guenther has openly said Kevin and you are active stakeholders in helping address and solve the issues facing the VF-23. Is it encouraging from your perspective to be able to have your say and work as a team to improve performance?

“Of course, we’re pushing very hard and we’re working on the weaknesses and trying to fix them. These issues can only be solved when everyone works closely together, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. It might not be a short-term fix but we’re confident we’ll work through them.”

 

We’re entering the third of four races in the month of July. Is this something you relish as a driver, being able to get into a good rhythm with the team and the car, or being so close to the summer break are you already planning ahead to the second half of the season? 

“Actually, I like that it’s getting busier now. You get into a nice rhythm and into a groove. I feel like the beginning of the season was very stop-start, so I’m enjoying this busy time and the intensity we’re carrying at the moment.”