Nico Hulkrnberg is hoping for better in Monaco Grand Prix this weekend after a frustrating at Spanish GP. The German was in the wrong place at the wrong time by being hit by Haas driver Romain Grosjean in the first lap in Spain.
Grosjean lost control of his car around the outside of Turn Three when trying to pass team-mate Kevin Magnussen and caused a fog of smoke as he careered the track.
“Nothing is similar in Monaco and no other meeting is close! This is the highlight of the year, the race I expect the most.” Hulkenberg said.
“It’s unique and special in every sense of the word: rhinestones and sequins, the glamorous side, the circuit itself. The atmosphere is incredible throughout the weekend. And there is this feeling of speed that makes you dizzy!”
Hulkenberg does not go along with the widely-held view that the Monaco GP is the toughest race on the Formula 1 calender. The Renault driver considers Monaco a track where the contribution from the driver matters more.
“It’s not the most physically demanding track, but it requires a lot of focus, precision and discipline. On this rather slow route, we do not take a lot of G, but every turn solicits us.” Hulkenberg said.
“You have to be focused because the slightest mistake can lead you into the rail. In Monaco, it’s all about driving confidence and the confidence you have in your car.
Nico Hulkenberg moments before hitting by Romain Grosjean at Spanish Grand Prix. (Source:www.news.com.au)
“It’s usually a thrilling race. Everything can happen. And even if the overtaking is difficult, it’s all Monaco’s challenge and that’s why I love it. You must take confidence step by step, turn by turn, session by session. There is no point in burning the stages or in being too safe.
“If you do that, the wall is never far away. You must reach your peak of confidence in qualifying in order to take risks and play with the rails to be on the limit.
“This gives you particularly exciting thrills! It’s a bit strange to come home every night or between sessions, but I appreciate the fact that it makes me more comfortable. And I like to take my scooter or my bike to walk around the circuit.” he added.
Hulkenberg is currently sitting in eight place in Formula 1 standings with 22 points, 3 points ahead of his team-mate Carlos Saint Jr.