After exceeding expectations in Australia with a double points finish, the Sahara Force India team arrive in Malaysia for round two of the 2015 Formula 1 season in a positive frame of mind.
Nico Hulkenberg finished seventh at Albert Park, and is eager to get back to racing this weekend in Sepang, although he expects it to be tougher to score points in Malaysia as reliability issues for others saw the German driver climb up the order last time out.
“I am really looking forward to getting back to action in Sepang after a fairly positive start of the season,” insisted Hulkenberg.
“We knew the VJM08’s reliability was one of our strong points and we were able to play that card well. We didn’t make any mistakes and we had a good strategy, and that helped us capitalise on a day when others ran into trouble.
“We need to keep our feet on the ground, however, because we know the circumstances in which we got this result and we know the next races will be tough.”
Looking ahead to the race in Malaysia, Hulkenberg understands the challenge of the Sepang circuit, and the importance of a good set-up to assist in both the high and low-speed corners the circuit possesses. The German also knows weather can play a pivotal part in the race weekend, and knows he has to be prepared for all scenarios.
“The track in Sepang is quite challenging and is very different compared to Melbourne,” revealed Hulkenberg.
“The various sectors have unique characteristics: there is a nice variation of high and low-speed corners and two very long straights.
“You need to balance your set-up between top speed and downforce to make the most of your car in each of them.
“The high temperatures and humidity add to the challenges of this track, and you always have a threat of rain, especially at the start of the race.”
