“Pulling Great Lap-Times Out of My Arm Sleeve” – Hulkenberg on Joining Aston Martin As Reserve Driver

At the end of the 2019 season, Nico Hulkenberg lost his Renault seat to Esteban Ocon. However, Racing Point signed him as their reserve driver the next season. The British racing team called upon his duties immediately when Sergio Perez contracted COVID-19 during the Britain Grand Prix.

His performance as a reserve driver was very impressive, making the team award him with another contract for this season. The British racing team, rebranded as Aston Martin this season have resigned the German driver for 2021. In a recent interview, Hulkenberg shared that he is looking forward to work with the team again.

“First of all, it’s great to get this deal signed up with plenty of notice – last year, I didn’t have quite as much time to prepare before jumping in the car! I’m really pleased to once again work with this team – with whom I have driven many times during my career,” said the German driver.

“Obviously, I’m hoping that Sebastian and Lance enjoy uninterrupted seasons this year, but the team knows it can rely on me to step in and do an excellent job, and I’m fully prepared to take on that challenge.

“It will also be interesting to help develop the team through the season, and I’m really looking forward to pulling great lap-times out of my arm sleeve.”

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Aston Martin boss happy to have Nico Hulkenberg back

Ever since he lost his Renault seat at the end of 2019, Hulkenberg has been looking for a way to get back in Formula 1 full-time. The limited chances he gets as a reserve driver, give him the opportunity to solidify his talents again.

He performed beyond expectations in 2020 and was even in contention for the second Red Bull seat. Aston Martin principal, Otmar Szafnauer, shared his views of signing Hulkenberg for this season.

He said, “We’re delighted to be able to welcome Nico back to the team in an official capacity, as reserve and development driver for Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One™ Team. In these difficult times, the requirement for a capable and experienced reserve driver is especially important.”

The German driver proved himself last season and met the team’s expectations for another contract. Although Hulkenberg hopes that the drivers have an uninterrupted season, he would look forward to a few opportunities this season.

Do you think Hulkenberg will make his full-time comeback to the Formula 1 grid soon?