Nico Hülkenberg described Friday as a “pleasant surprise” after a strong showing by Renault Sport Formula One Team at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix.
Hülkenberg was fourth fastest in Free Practice 1 before slipping one place back to fifth in Free Practice 2 as Renault had both cars in the top five in both sessions on Friday.
“The car felt good today, in line with our expectations for balance and feeling.”
The German was pleasantly surprised by how quick the Renault was on during Friday practice.
“It was a pleasant surprise to see how quick we were especially for a Friday.”
Tyre degradation is expected to be very high this weekend in Mexico especially the Hypersoft which could make qualifying interesting on Saturday.
“Tyre degradation is obviously something we’re looking at for the race as the Hypersoft gives good pace, but that performance doesn’t last.”
Despite the strong showing on Friday, Hülkenberg believes there is more pace to come from the team this weekend as they try and fend off Haas F1 Team for fourth place in the constructors championship.
“We have a few set-up areas to work on, so there’s potential for more to come tomorrow.”
