The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marks Nico Hülkenberg’s 250th race in his Formula 1 career. To commemorate this milestone, the German driver will sport a specially designed helmet that highlights his long-standing career.
Hülkenberg has been a familiar face in the Formula 1 paddock for many years. He made his debut in 2010 and has driven for various teams throughout his career. He has been active for Williams, Force India, Sauber, Renault, and Haas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he took a brief hiatus, but Hülkenberg made a name for himself as a substitute driver for Racing Point and later Aston Martin. Interestingly, the podium finish that had been predicted for him for years had eluded him until this season, when the German finished third in the British GP at the Silverstone circuit.
According to Hülkenberg, the special helmet serves as a visual tribute to his qualities: loyalty, professionalism, and endurance. Sauber suggests that the helmet tells the story of a driver who never shied away from challenging situations, has always been respected in the paddock, is appreciated by fans, and has never lost his speed over the years.
Hülkenberg himself has emphasized in recent months that he still enjoys both the profession and the competition. His 250th start in the past fifteen (!) years underscores this for the now 38-year-old German. More races will be added next season: he has already secured a seat with Audi, the team that Sauber will be merging into.
