Nico Hulkenberg: One training is not enough to prepare you

On the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix, team driver Nico Hulkenberg spoke to the Haas press office about the characteristics of the Spa circuit and his plans for the summer break in an interview.

Question: How different is your preparation for the race at Spa now compared to the preparation for the first race at this Belgian circuit?
Nico Hulkenberg: In Formula 1, I spoke for the first time on this circuit in 2010. Since the Spa stage took place at the end of August, the race was not one of my first. This is a legendary course with an excellent configuration, carved into the surrounding landscape with an interesting elevation change. The circle is fast and a bit reminiscent of a rollercoaster, which I personally really like.

Normally the race takes place after the summer break, but this year it will take place for the first time before the August break. Let’s see how the date change will affect the weather.

Question: What do you expect from this weekend, which will be held in sprint form?
Nico Hulkenberg: An hour of training instead of three leaves very little time for preparation. Everyone is on an equal footing, but this format still complicates the task, as there is a lot to do and test. It is important to start the weekend with the right settings right away, but otherwise there are few differences from any other stage.

You have to make the best use of the time available, do a few qualifying laps and try to make sure you are happy with the car after an hour session.

Q: How do you plan to spend your summer vacation?
Nico Hulkenberg: I’m looking forward to the summer holidays so that I don’t have to answer questions like this in the coming weeks! I will have free time, I will rest, relax a little and prepare for the second half of the season.

Soon the Singapore Grand Prix is ​​one of the most physically demanding races of the season, so during the break you should not only rest, but also train.