Nico Hulkenberg felt like an ‘adopted Mexican’ after the Mexican Grand Prix weekend, with the Sahara Force India driver feeling welcomed by the fans at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, especially as team-mate to home hero Sergio Perez.
The German driver admitted his race in Mexico was ‘quite lonely’, but was able to capitalise on the safety car period to finish seventh on the road, just ahead of his team-mate, and was happy with his performance.
“It was a good race, although I was quite lonely for most of it,” revealed Hulkenberg. “We couldn’t have gotten any more from it so I feel very happy with the result.
“The Safety Car ended up playing into my hands, which is the little bit of luck you always need to get a good result, but our pace was strong and we were able to hold our own. I am really happy about this performance and finally getting back in the points after a bit of a difficult period for me.
“It was a very clean race from my part, with no mistakes and no problems. It took a lot of management as the temperatures were high and we had to look after the brakes as well, so from that perspective it was a very demanding race.
“The atmosphere today was one of the best I have ever experienced and the drivers’ parade was something very special. The event was great and the fans have been so welcoming – I feel I have been adopted as a Mexican now!
“Today’s result is important for our championship battle so it’s a great day for everyone in the team.”
