Nico Hulkenberg not overly happy with his season so far

Amid all the excitement and unpredictability that has made the 2012 Formula 1 season so unique, one midfield team who has yet to shine is Force India, and most notably Nico Hulkenberg. When the 24-year-old German made his debut with Williams in 2010, many tipped him as a future World Champion.

However, after a year of being a test driver for Force India, Nico Hulkenberg has now returned to Formula 1 in a season which is exceedingly competitive and unpredictable. With only 7 points scored in the first seven races, Hulkenberg is understandably unhappy with how his season has gone so far.

“Not overly happy.” Explained the German when asked how satisfied he is with his season so far in an interview with the Official Formula 1 Website. “In regards of results and the standings I had hoped that the outcome would be better. Of course at the first four races I was in something of a warm-up mode to get back into racing and later I was not blessed with luck at times, as there were situations that were beyond my control.”

With Nico Hulkenberg’s team-mate Paul di Resta having scored considerably more points than him, many have perceived the advantage within Force India to be with the Scot. However, Hulkenberg is adamant that the overall balance between himself and his team-mate is not as big as it seems.

“Well, I started really strongly in Australia, outperforming him.” Continued Hulkenberg. “At some of the following races it got tight between the two of us and then I have to confess I made some unnecessary mistakes. And there you have it: in a season so marginal, a small mistake can cost you several places. So overall the balance between Paul and myself is pretty even - even if the results do not show that.”

Although Force India have yet to score a competitive result, whereas other midfield teams such as Sauber and Williams have already stepped onto the podium, Hulkenberg believes the Silverstone-based outfit are one of the most consistent teams on the grid. Even though Force India haven’t scored high amounts of points at each race, they have only retired once in 2012.

“If you look at it you would come to the conclusion that Force India is the most consistent team so far.” Insisted Hulkenberg, “Sure, we have not had any glory, but we also haven’t had any real reason for tears. We are in the midfield and consistent.”

After this weekends European Grand Prix in Valencia, the Formula 1 paddock will move swiftly on to the British Grand Prix at the legendary Silverstone circuit. During this race weekend, Force India are set to introduce several new upgrades to their car.

“Yes, Silverstone will see some major upgrades: a new floor, if I am right, and a number of other new parts. But I think every team is gearing up then, so it will be important to make your updates work.”

Although Nico Hulkenberg isn’t overly happy with his season so far, he has finished in the points on three occasions and has only failed to finish one race. As current Championship leader Lewis Hamilton has shown, consistency seems to be the key in this highly competitive 2012 season.

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