Nico Hulkenberg is certain to return to Formula 1 in 2023. He will race for Haas, replacing Mick Schumacher whose contract was not renewed.
Hulkenberg, 35 years old, last returned to full racing in F1 in 2019 when he defended Renault. During the last three seasons, he has been a reserve driver for Aston Martin (formerly Racing Point) and has participated in five races.
However, towards the end of the 2022 season, Haas decided to return to using a duet of experienced drivers. Hulkenberg was also chosen as Kevin Magnussen’s tandem, who has rejoined since this year.
“I’m delighted to be back racing a full season with Haas in F1 2023. I feel like I’ve never left Formula 1,” said Hulkenberg, quoted by Crash.
“I’m excited about this opportunity, to do what I do again, and I thank Gene Haas and Gunther Steiner for their trust. We have a duty to compete with other teams in the mid-table, I can’t wait to get back to racing,” explained the German rider that.
Schumacher expressed his disappointment at losing his place in F1 next year via social media. Even so, he is determined to return to the grid in the future.
Hulkenberg will return to being the main driver in F1 since the last time in 2019. Photo: Getty Images/Clive Mason |
“I do not want to hide the fact that I am really disappointed that my contract was not renewed. But I am still grateful to Haas and Ferrari for the opportunity given,” wrote Schumacher.
“It’s been a difficult period but I’m learning a lot and growing, and I know I deserve to be in Formula 1. The door is still not closed for me. A step back will only make me stronger.
“I’m still passionate about Formula 1 and I will fight to get back on the grid,” concluded the son of the Ferrari legend, Michael Schumacher.
This season, Schumacher’s performance is not satisfactory. Of the 19 series that have been held, the number of points (12) is less than Magnussen’s (25). In addition, he experienced several crashes which were considered to be financially detrimental to Haas this season.
So far, all Formula 1 2023 seats have been filled. Schumacher will most likely seek a reserve driver role at another team. Currently, he is linked to Mercedes who lost Nyck de Vries to joining AlphaTauri.
F1 2022 has only one more series left, namely the Abu Dhabi GP which will take place from 18-20 November at the Yas Marina Circuit.
(adp/aff)
