Renault driver Nico Hรผlkenberg is aiming to return to the top ten following the frustrating Asian triple-header which left him without points, starting with this weekend's USGP at the Circuit of the Americas.
As we head into the final stretch of the 2017 Formula One season, the USGP is the first in a double header weekend with the Mexican GP following on its heels just seven days later.
Not only will the Hulk be looking to finish the season off with as many points as possible, he will also be getting used to his new teammate, former Toro Rosso driver Carlos Sainz, who replaces Jolyon Palmer as of this weekend.
What do you like about Austin?
Austin is a cool town and a great place to be, I really like going to Texas. I love the track a lot and, out of all the modern tracks built in the last few years, this is a standout. The design is outstanding with a lot of cool corner combinations which flow really well. Sector one reminds me of Silverstone as it's very quick and flowing. That's what us drivers are after and it puts a big smile on our faces! Finding a good balance is important because, if you don't, it will mean you will struggle. Austin is high on brake wear and fuel consumption, so it's quite demanding in that regard, but nevertheless one of the really fun race weekends.
What are your thoughts from Suzuka?
It was a very tricky weekend. The race was going well, we were on the harder tyre doing a long first stint, but I made my life a bit harder by running wide in the second Degner. I pitted late and came out behind Massa and the two Haas cars. I had DRS open and the wing didn't close; it wasn't reparable and it ended our race. I would have had a good chance to go through those guys ahead and into eighth. That's racing, though, things like this happen, but we move on and focus on Austin where want some points again!
Are you excited to partner Carlos?
I'm looking forward to working with Carlos. We need to finish off the season well together to help the team in the Constructors' standings. I'll be doing everything I can to help him hit the ground running with the team, but he is a very capable driver with a bright future. He has shown what he can do in Formula 1 and we'll be aiming for a positive start to our partnership in Austin.
