Renault’s Nico Hulkenberg was particularly satisfied to beat the likes of Haas and Force India in the 2018 Formula 1 German Grand Prix, which he feels were faster during the weekend.
The German managed to get Haas’ Romain Grosjean at the start of the race at Hockenheim but then was stuck behind the other Haas of Kevin Magnussen. He was already ahead of both the Force Indias of Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon.
For the majority of the race Hulkenberg was left chasing Magnussen and it was only when the conditions changed that the German finally got the chance to get past the Dane. It was on Lap 49 that he made the move.
The Renault driver overtook Magnussen in Turn 12 in the slippery conditions where the German revels. And despite the pit gamble taken by both the drivers, Hulkenberg still managed to keep fifth and record his best finish of the season and also at home.
More importantly, it was crucial for him to beat both the Haas drivers and also Force India as it helped Renault to move to 80 points in the battle for fourth – as it sits 21 points ahead of the two teams who are tied on 59.
“It was great, it was fun [out there],” said Hulkenberg. “Best result of the season in front of the home crowd, so obviously very proud and happy about that. It was tricky when rain hit us – that’s when the things got exciting.
“I managed to overtake the Haas and from there on my race was straightforward and exciting. I think he [Magnussen] went little wide in Turn 8 and I made a move on him in Turn 9/10 around the outside and then took the position into Turn 12.
“It is a very satisfying feeling, of course, to get the reward in 10 points. The team has been working hard, also I feel that we don’t have a faster car compared to Force India and Haas, so it is even more satisfying when you then come out on top and beat them in the race.”
One of the biggest reasons for both Force India and Haas to do well is the Mercedes and Ferrari power units, which is no doubt more powerful than Renault at this juncture. And so, it becomes vital for Renault to score as many points to keep the gap afloat.
