Hülkenberg aims for a full-time seat in 2012
After a year spent as a test driver at Force India.
Freshly crowned in the GP2 Series in 2009, Nico Hülkenberg logically made the big leap to F1 during the 2010 season. It was with Williams that the young German started alongside the experienced Rubens Barrichello. After a difficult first half of the season, Hülkenberg slowly turned things around to get closer to his teammate. The highlight of his first season remains his pole position achieved at the Brazilian Grand Prix in changeable weather conditions.
Unfortunately for him, his good results at the end of the season will not allow him to keep his seat with the Williams team, which is lacking funds following the departure of numerous sponsors. Frank Williams will prefer Pastor Maldonado for the 2011 season. The decision of the English team not to renew the contract of the German driver came late and did not allow Hülkenberg to find a primary seat elsewhere. Ultimately, he found refuge with Force India as a third driver. This position allows him to drive the Indian car during the first free practice session on Fridays.
« The timing of the decision (by Williams) wasn’t perfect because the other seats were already taken, » explained Hülkenberg in an interview for the Dutch magazine Formule 1. « The test driver position is not much and it remains frustrating, but it’s better than nothing. Fortunately, I can at least drive on Fridays. »
This position allows him to stay in the loop, continue driving a Formula 1 car, and showcase his abilities. Nico Hülkenberg also hopes to be back on the starting grids next season. « This season is not fatal to my career, but next year, I must have a race seat. Otherwise, it’s going to be difficult for me. »
