Ralf Schumacher urges Nico Hulkenberg to ditch Haas F1

Nico Hulkenberg served as Aston Martin’s reserve driver from 2021-2022.

Ralf Schumacher urges Nico Hulkenberg to ditch Haas F1

Ralf Schumacher (Image credit: Telecom Asia) and Nico Hulkenberg (Image credit: Crash.net)

Nico Hulkenberg has made a strong impression in his full-time return to F1. His peak performances were evident during Canadian Grand Prix qualifying session. Hulkenberg capitalized on his track position and adapted to changing conditions, securing a front-row start for Haas alongside Max Verstappen. Despite a penalty for dropping him to P5, his displays all but guarantee a contract renewal. However, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher suggests Nico should explore other options.

In his column for Sky Germany, Ralf Schumacher delves into Formula One opportunities for the Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg. Amidst the uncertainty surrounding his future, Ralph reckons it becomes evident that alternatives to Haas are more enticing. The attraction lies in the greater potential showcased by other teams like Williams, who have made substantial investments and are now bearing fruit.

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Similarly, Alpha Tauri boasts promising developments that catch the eye. In stark contrast, Haas seems to be moving backward. That may deter Nico Hulkenberg from considering it as an ideal destination. Making the right choice among these options will prove pivotal for shaping the German’s career prospects in the competitive world of Formula One.

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“As for his future, it’s debatable how many other F1 opportunities there are for Hulkenberg. Probably any option would be better for him than Haas. You get the impression from the outside that there is more potential in the other teams,” he wrote in his column.

Also read: Ralf Schumacher reveals the Hungarian GP race moment that proved Lewis Hamilton’s greatness

Ralf Schumacher expresses concerns over Nico Hulkenberg’s future

Nico Hulkenberg at the 2023 Canadian Grand Prix qualifying (Image credit: Autosport.com)

After his last full-time F1 in 2019, Nico Hulkenberg lost his Renault seat to Esteban Ocon for the next season. He stood in for COVID-affected drivers at five Grands Prix during the pandemic. His last race was 12th place at the 2022 Saudi Arabian GP for Aston Martin. In 2023 Haas replaced Mick Schumacher with Hulkenberg.

In the same column, Ralf Schumacher claimed finding a new seat for Nico Hulkenberg will prove to be a formidable challenge. Despite being regarded as a strong qualifier, there is a perception that he struggles to exploit his potential during races, according to Schumacher fully. Making him yearn for a competitive car that can showcase his true capabilities.

He also expressed that it’s disheartening for Hulkenberg not to have enough opportunities to prove his worth. Nevertheless, amidst these hurdles, he manages to impress with his skill and dedication, continuing to do a commendable job in the sport. Schumacher believes the quest to secure a seat that aligns with his aspirations and allows him to flourish remains a pressing concern for the talented driver.

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