F1 pundit claims Nico Hulkenberg could soon be an option for ‘top teams’ and get his first podium

Nico Hulkenberg has impressed the paddock with his strong performances in 2023.

F1 pundit claims Nico Hulkenberg could soon be an option for ‘top teams’ and get his first podium

Nico Hulkenberg (Via IMAGO)

Nico Hulkenberg rejoined the Formula 1 grid with Haas in 2023. The German driver has impressed the entire paddock with some strong results this season. However, the 36-year-old has been confined to fighting for rare points finishes due to the performance of the Haas car. Former F1 driver, Timo Glock reckons that Hulkenberg could become an option for quicker teams on the grid.

The former Toyota driver believed that Haas must try and improve its car next season. The American team has failed to make the most out of Hulkenberg’s strong results in Qualifying as it struggles in race trim. Glock praised his fellow German’s incredible one-lap pace throughout the course of this season.

Looking ahead to next year, it’s up to Haas whether they provide Hülkenberg with a better car than this year – especially in the race. We don’t need to discuss his performance in qualifying. It’s outstanding.

Timo Glock wrote in his Sky Germany column

Timo Glock believed that Hulkenberg’s strong performances might make him an option for the big teams in the future. This could finally provide Nico Hulkenberg with the opportunity to achieve his first podium at the pinnacle of motorsport. Presently, the German holds the record for the most races in F1 without a single podium finish.

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Of course, such performances always bring him into the conversation with top teams. If Hülkenberg were to drive in a top team, he is also someone who can fight for the podium and for victories.

Nico Hulkenberg still a formidable driver in the F1 midfield

Hulkenberg has been in and around the F1 paddock for over a decade. The German driver solidified his place as a strong midfield driver during his time at Force India. The 36-year-old moved to Renault in 2017 and stayed with the team till 2019 before being replaced by Esteban Ocon. Nico Hulkenberg then made a couple of appearances as a super sub for Racing Point and Aston Martin.

Max Verstappen and Nico Hulkenberg (image via Sportskeeda)
Max Verstappen and Nico Hulkenberg (image via Sportskeeda)

The 36-year-old replaced Mick Schumacher at Haas this season. The German driver has far exceeded expectations and even outperformed teammate Kevin Magnussen. So much so, that Hulkenberg was rumored to be approached by Alfa Romeo for 2024. However, the Haas driver’s contract clause for next season was activated.

Nico Hulkenberg has proved himself as a solid driver despite being off the grid for three seasons. The 36-year-old can bring experience and consistency to a top team if he is offered a seat in the near future. However, till then, fans would be looking forward to seeing how Hulkenberg performs in the coming races.

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