Nico Hulkenberg returned to the points two weeks ago at the Italian Grand Prix after two disappointing weekends in Hungary and Belgium, and is hoping for more points this weekend in Singapore.
The German Sahara Force India driver admits to enjoying racing around the streets of Marina Bay, and says the night race is an amazing spectacle for both drivers and spectators alike.
“I’ve always enjoyed racing in Singapore and I think it’s one of the best events of the year,” said Hulkenberg. “The city is buzzing and there’s a great atmosphere wherever you go.
“When it’s all lit up at night it looks stunning. I often wonder how much work is required to transform such a busy city into a racetrack. It’s clearly a huge logistical operation, but it’s definitely worth all the effort.”
Hulkenberg knows he will need a car that can ride the many bumps around the Marina Bay circuit to have a good weekend, and admits to enjoying the first sector of the lap.
“The track layout has some nice features, but the first sector stands out for me – especially the fast right-hand kink of turn six and the braking zone of turn seven,” insisted Hulkenberg.
“You need a car that’s able to ride the bumps, can use the kerbs and gives you confidence through the low and medium-speed corners.”
Hulkenberg adds to the chorus of drivers who rates the Singapore Grand Prix as the toughest event on the Formula 1 calendar, not just physically but also mentally due to the closeness of the walls to the track.”
“I think the Singapore Grand Prix ranks as the toughest race of the year because of the heat,” said Hulkenberg. “It’s physically draining and you’ve also got the mental challenge of racing so close to the walls with a small margin of error.
“We go there knowing we’ve made some good steps with the car over the last few races and aiming for more good points.”
