Nico Hulkenberg is looking to make amends for his retirement last weekend at the Circuit of the Americas when Formula 1 arrives for the first Mexican Grand Prix since 1992 this weekend.
The Sahara Force India driver felt he was on course for a good result in the United States before clashing with the Red Bull of Daniel Ricciardo and breaking his suspension, but just wants to get out on track in Mexico, an event the German believes will be one of the most exciting of the season both on and off the track.
“When you have a bad result, the best way to bounce back is to get back in the saddle immediately,” said Hulkenberg. “The race in Austin was frustrating as I felt it was a missed opportunity to score a lot of points, but that’s racing. I have to get it out of the system and at least I get to be back in the car after just a few days.
“This week should be one of the most exciting in the season for us with lots happening on and off the track. We have a lot of Mexican partners and I think there will be a lot of attention on us so the expectations will be high.
“When we visited Mexico in January for our team launch, the whole country was incredibly supportive and enthusiastic, and it was the same last week when I was there for a charity event. They have been waiting for a Grand Prix for a long time and I am sure the circuit will put on a great event.
“I have even been trying to learn a bit of Spanish ahead of the race – even though by Sunday night all I want to say to the local press is “una gran carrera!””
Hulkenberg believes the track will offer some opportunities to overtake, and is looking forward to experiencing the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez for the first time on Friday morning.
“I am really looking forward to exploring the new track,” said Hulkenberg. “I have never really driven on it properly – I just did a handful of laps in a road car on what was the old layout back in January. I have seen the map and a few videos, and the circuit seems to have a nice flow.
“There are a lot of medium-speed corners which is something drivers enjoy and some big straights that should generate some overtaking opportunities.”
