Nico Hülkenberg has joined Aston Martin Racing’s F1 team as a reserve and development driver, securing a return to the team he drove for twice in 2020.
The 33-year-old has started 179 Grand Prix, 81 of which were awarded for Aston Martin under the former Force India and Racing Point guises. Last year’s performances were scheduled for Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll at the last minute after both tested positive for COVID-19. Aston has now set out to officially secure Hulkenberg this season.
The 100th pole of ‘Crazy’ reminds Hamilton of his first
Mazepin is punished for interfering with Norris
Shoulder problems hinder Perez in qualifying
“First of all, getting this deal signed on time is great – last year I didn’t have that much time to prepare before jumping in the car!” Hulkenberg said. “I’m really excited to be back working with this team that I’ve raced with many times throughout my career.
“Of course I hope Sebastian (Vettel) and Lance have an uninterrupted season this year, but the team knows that I can rely on me to step in and do an excellent job, and I am fully prepared to take on this challenge to deliver. It will also be interesting to develop the team throughout the season and I’m really looking forward to getting great lap times out of my arms. “
Team boss Otmar Szafnauer said it was particularly important to ensure that this year’s reserve driver can react late. Hülkenberg proved his qualifications with two points in his calls last year.
“We are very pleased to welcome Nico back to the team in an official role as reserve and development driver,” said Szafnauer. “In these difficult times, the requirement for a capable and experienced reserve driver is particularly important.
“Last year, Nico proved that he can jump into the car in a very short time and perform excellently. Now that we have additional leeway for preparation and integration, we know we can count on Nico to do a great job. “
Hülkenberg was linked to a potential racing seat at Red Bull late last year and was also touted as an option for Mercedes should one of its reserve drivers – Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries – be unavailable due to Formula E commitments.
The post Hülkenberg signs for Aston Martin as a reserve and development driver first appeared on monter-une-startup.
