In a race that will be etched in the memory of fans, Nico Hulkenberg finally broke the drought and managed to get on the podium at the British Grand Prix of Formula 1.
After 239 races and 5,593 days of waiting, the German driver proved his worth at the Silverstone circuit, achieving a result that seemed elusive throughout his career.
Hulkenberg, known for holding the record for most races without achieving a podium finish, changed that statistic with an impeccable performance.
The team’s strategy and the pilot’s skill in changing conditions were key to this achievement.
This podium also represents a milestone for Sauber, marking their first podium appearance since the 2012 Japanese Grand Prix.
After celebrating with his team, Hulkenberg expressed his persistent faith in achieving this goal. It took a long time to arrive, didn’t it? But I always knew we had it in us, I have it in me, somewhere. Hulkenberg, starting from nineteenth position, climbed positions thanks to a strategically perfect pit stop, especially when the rain intensified the race. At one point, the driver found himself with Lewis Hamilton, competing on his turf, but Hulkenberg held firm. What a race. Coming practically from the back, doing it all again since last weekend. The pilot described the situation as surreal, attributing the success to the right decisions at the right time.I don’t think I can understand what we just did… My God!
Nico Hulkenberg
Hulkenberg admitted that he hesitated until the last pit stop, but upon hearing that they were gaining an advantage over Hamilton, he felt that victory was possible.It was a fight for survival for a large part of the race. I think we were just very spot on with the right decisions, the right tires at the right time, without making mistakes, something incredible.
Nico Hulkenberg
Hulkenberg’s teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, also celebrated the achievement. Max Verstappen also congratulated Hulkenberg during the cool-down lap. Thanks to Hulkenberg’s podium, Sauber climbed to sixth position in the championship.I was thinking I would give it my all in front of my home crowd, and I thought: ‘I’m sorry, guys, but it’s also my day.’ I had to take the risk. I am super happy.
Nico Hulkenberg
