Q&A with Nico Hulkenberg

Nico, the winter season went very quickly and now it’s time to get back to action. How did you enjoy the break?

“It was really cool to have some time off and recharge my batteries. It’s very important to have the chance to relax, especially during such a busy season when the opportunities to have some days off are few and far between. Winter is a time to catch up with friends, spend time with my family and take the mind off motorsport for a bit, but now I can’t wait to get back in the car.”

How do you reflect on your 2015 campaign?

“From a team perspective, we had our best year. The updates we brought to the car worked well and there were some great days. For me personally, it was a year in which I learnt a lot. I can honestly say it was not a season in which everything went to plan, but I’ve come out of it as a better driver. And of course, 2015 is the year in which I won Le Mans, which is as special a memory as you can get in this sport.”

So what does 2016 hold in store for Nico Hülkenberg?

“A lot of success, hopefully! We seemed to find the sweet spot with the car at the end of last year and we want to maintain this form in 2016. The car is similar; the team hasn’t changed and I am ready for the challenge. I want to stand here in November, look back at the season and be happy because it has been my best season ever in Formula One. And if I can get a few podiums along the way, that’s even better.”

You mentioned the team’s continuity. How important is it to be in a stable environment?

“It is very important. Too often people look at the surface - the car, the drivers - without looking at the structures behind. When you work with people you know well, from the crew to the management, you’re at ease and can concentrate on getting the best out of yourself and the car. I am lucky to be in a very cool team with some of the best people in the sport. Everyone is hungry to keep progressing and I think we can do that again this year.”

What have you made of the new tyre regulations? Will it have a big impact on the sport?

“It’s a bit early to say. More tyre choices will probably bring some extra flexibility with our strategy options, which should be good for the show. From our perspective, I am confident we will get on top of the new rules quickly: this team has often taken a step forward when new rules have been introduced, so if there is an opportunity, we will make the best of it.”