Formula 1 is not just about speed zamIt is a sport where strategy is also at the forefront. Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg may have started the race in Japan from 18th place, but he attracted attention with a strong start, rising to 12th place in the first laps. In this article, we will discuss Hulkenberg's performance in the Japanese Grand Prix and how the race went.
A Challenging Track: Suzuka
Suzuka is known as a track that tests the patience and skill of Formula 1 drivers and teams. This track, especially where tires are exposed to excessive wear, presents great difficulties to the drivers. The Haas team was expecting a difficult race in Japan with their VF-23 car.
Score Quest: Nico Hulkenberg's Debut
Nico Hulkenberg had not scored points since Australia and started the Japanese Grand Prix from 18th place. However, with a strong start, he rose to 12th place in the first laps. This start gave him hope that he could score points early in the race.
“Maybe at the beginning of the race, I was really wishing and dreaming of scoring points,” Hulkenberg said. said. However, in the later minutes of the race, he had difficulty keeping up with the speed of his rivals.
A Positive Experience
The Haas team expected they would face difficulties such as tire wear in Japan. However, Hulkenberg said that the race was more positive than expected. He gained a few positions on the first lap and had the chance to change tyres, thanks to the intervention of the safety car.
Hulkenberg said about the race: “Maybe it really was a little better than expected. It was a clean race. I had a good first lap. “I gained a few places.” But he eventually conceded that they weren't fast enough.