Hulkenberg targets immediate comeback after “bitter” German GP

Renault Formula 1 driver Nico Hulkenberg is determined to bounce back from the disappointment of his home race in Germany at this weekend’s Hungarian Grand Prix.

The German made excellent progress from ninth on the grid and ran as high as second place during a crazy race held in changeable conditions at Hockemheim, but a crash at mid-distance ended his hopes of potentially landing his first ever podium in F1.

“It was a bitter one and I’m very disappointed for the team and myself,” Hulkenberg said.

“We were doing a very good job in difficult conditions. It hurts, but we have the opportunity for an immediate comeback this weekend in Hungary. I’m determined as ever for a strong result.”

The French manufacturer had been on course for a strong result but ended up suffering a double retirement when Daniel Ricciardo’s car was hit by an exhaust failure.

Renault slipped to sixth in the constructors’ championship behind Toro Rosso after Daniil Kvyat scored a shock podium and teammate Alexander Albon also finished inside the points.

Renault team principal Cyril Abiteboul added: “We left Hockenheim with a bitter taste as, in exceptional races like Sunday’s, you can really pick up some big points.

“We have another chance in Hungary to demonstrate what we can do, and I know both drivers are motivated to deliver on the potential and go into the summer on a positive.

“We continue to be focused on our objective to build a more competitive car. We had a small taste of what it feels like to be up at the front on merit and this is just the motivation we need heading towards the summer break.

“The championship is open and, quite clearly, we need to score good points in Hungary to stay in the race.”