Formula1: Nico Hulkenberg: Spa and Monza 'make or break'

Nico Hulkenberg

Hulkenberg: Spa and Monza 'make or break'

Big improvements needed, and quick.

Martin Macdonald

Wednesday 28 August 2019 14:00 Updated: 14:12

Nico Hulkenberg reckons that the next two Formula 1 races at Spa and Monza are “make or break” for Renault as the team attempt to salvage their abject season so far.

Ahead of the 2019 campaign, Renault had aspirations of bridging the gap to and even potentially matching the power of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull. However, they have fallen way below expectations and are sixth in the constructors’ championship.

Hulkenberg, who has been forced to endure speculation about his future with the team this week, believes they need to hit the ground running immediately after the summer break ends this weekend for the Belgian Grand Prix.

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"We know the season has fallen below our expectations so far, and it's up to us now to ensure we recover it for the remainder of the year," the German said when previewing the race.

"[Over the summer] I relaxed a little, recharged the batteries on a boat in Croatia. But now it's time to get going again and I'm ready for the challenge.

"These next two back-to-back races are almost a make or break for our season. We have to be on it."

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He is clearly a fan of the circuit at Spa, and is hoping it matches his strengths so he can claim a positive result on Sunday.

“Spa is one of my favourite tracks to race at in Formula 1,” he added.

“Everything about the place makes it so special. The scenery in the forest, the unpredictable weather, the awesome corner combinations; it all adds up to create this really cool challenge.

“Spa is known for its elevation changes and fast corners. It’s a real thrill when you nail a lap and head through Eau Rouge, Pouhon and Blanchimont at high-speed.

“I think Spa suits my style of driving and we’ll be aiming for a solid run this weekend to start this second-half of the season on the right foot.”