Steiner’s admiration for Hulkenberg’s rapid readjustment to a full-time F1 role is unmistakable.
Hulkenberg was brought on board for the 2023 season to replace Mick Schumacher, whose talent was marred by frequent accidents that incurred significant repair costs for the team.
Previously, Hulkenberg had been frequently called upon as an emergency substitute at Racing Point and Aston Martin, during three different instances of COVID-19 diagnoses. His appearances included stepping in for Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll in 2020 and Sebastian Vettel at the start of 2022.
In spite of a three-year absence from a full-time driving role, Hulkenberg’s performance in the 2023 season has been impressive. Steiner, Haas F1 Team’s Principal, initially expressed concerns over how quickly Hulkenberg could adapt, but those worries were promptly put to rest.
Steiner shared his profound impression of Hulkenberg’s immediate impact, saying, “We took him for one reason, because we know he can drive a race car. My doubt was about how long it would take him to catch up after three years as a part-time driver, but he was there from day one. It’s highly impressive how he tries to assist the team, and that’s precisely what we needed from his experience.”
In the first 11 races, Hulkenberg managed to reach Q3 six or seven times, scoring nine points. Steiner emphasized that any shortcomings were due to the car, not the driver, and expressed satisfaction with Hulkenberg’s contribution.
Further reflecting on Hulkenberg’s integration within the team, Steiner praised his ability to quickly develop strong relationships and lean on his extensive experience to handle the challenging moments. He also acknowledged Hulkenberg’s measured approach to racing and his clear understanding of what was required.
Hulkenberg, the 2009 GP2 champion, recognized that helping to elevate Haas would not be a brief endeavor, and Steiner was impressed by his speed, integration, and the correct effort he put into the role. He summarized it with a metaphor: “It’s the experience – [he knows] it’s not chocolate, it’s not sweet to make, so it takes some time.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword Hulkenberg
Who replaced Mick Schumacher in the 2023 season for Haas F1 Team?
Nico Hulkenberg replaced Mick Schumacher for the Haas F1 Team in the 2023 season.
Why was Hulkenberg chosen as a replacement for Schumacher?
Hulkenberg was chosen because of his driving ability and experience, despite concerns about his three-year absence from full-time driving.
How did Hulkenberg perform as a temporary driver at Racing Point and Aston Martin?
Hulkenberg performed impressively, stepping in for various drivers at short notice during three separate COVID-19 diagnoses, including races for Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll in 2020, and Sebastian Vettel in 2022.
What were Steiner’s initial concerns about signing Hulkenberg, and how were they addressed?
Steiner, the Team Principal of Haas F1 Team, initially feared that Hulkenberg would need time to fully reacquaint himself with full-time F1 driving. However, his anxieties were quickly relieved as Hulkenberg was effective from day one.
How has Hulkenberg’s performance been in the first part of the 2023 season?
Hulkenberg has been impressive, reaching Q3 six or seven times out of the first 11 races, and scoring nine points. Steiner acknowledged that any issues were with the car, not Hulkenberg, and expressed satisfaction with his contribution.
What did Steiner particularly appreciate about Hulkenberg’s integration with the team?
Steiner admired Hulkenberg’s rapid integration, his strong working relationships, his ability to handle challenging moments, and his measured approach to racing, all of which he attributed to Hulkenberg’s extensive experience in the sport.
6 comments
Whats the fuss about Hulkenberg, I mean he’s good but the car needs to be improved too. Steiner should focus on that more.
i knew it, Hulkenberg was always a solid choice. his performance speaks volumes, even after being away from full-time driving
Hulk’s the man, they should’ve brought him back sooner. but hey better late than never right
hulkenberg and Steiner seem to have a great connection. this could be the start of something big for Haas!
Steiner seems really pleased with the decision, can’t wait to see how the rest of the season unfolds, Go Hulkenberg!!
Wow, Hulkenberg’s back and in full force. Haas really made a good move, this guy’s amazing!