Nico Hülkenberg announced today that he is transitioning to Audi’s new Formula 1 team. In our Top 3 segment, we look back at some of the German driver’s memorable moments in the premier class of motorsport.
3. ‘I’m hanging here like a cow’
In 2018, Nico Hülkenberg’s Formula 1 season came to an abrupt end. During the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the German came into contact with Romain Grosjean’s Haas. Hülkenberg flew through the air in his Renault and came to a standstill upside down after a double roll. “Get me out of here, I’m hanging here like a cow and there’s fire,” he said over the radio. Fortunately, the stewards acted quickly and he was able to step out unharmed.
A Heartbreaking Moment for Hülkenberg
In 2012, Hülkenberg was racing for Force India. During the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, he was surprisingly leading the race. However, his substantial lead vanished when a safety car was deployed on the track. After the restart, he battled with Lewis Hamilton for the lead, but collided with the British driver, and both were forced off the track. “My heart bled when I saw those images later. I was leading, that was the day. That was one of the most special races in history for me,” said the German, who holds the dubious record for the most Grands Prix without a podium finish.
Pole Position in Debut Year
Staying in Brazil, Hülkenberg made his Formula 1 debut in 2010 with Williams and surprised everyone during the qualifying round at Interlagos. Under changing weather conditions, he outpaced everyone, including Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber in the faster Red Bull. “I’ve had a few special moments in Brazil, like this pole position. That was of course fantastic and I will never forget it,” Hülkenberg reflects.
