In recent times, there has been a lot of activity going on in the Formula One fraternity as 2013 has just ended. There are going to be several changes in the next season in terms of rules and regulations. In addition, some teams have made alterations in their teams of drivers, one of them being Sahara Force India. It has been learnt that German driver Nico Hulkenberg has officially signed a multi-year deal with Force India and will return to his old team after a year. Notably, Hulkenberg was a part of the Silverstone based team during 2011 and 2012 seasons as test driver and race driver, respectively. Many experts in the Formula One fraternity believe that the former GP2 series champion has great potential and would do really well in the future.
Hulkenberg, born in Emmerich am Rhein, made his debut in professional motor racing at German Formula BMW in the year 2005. Dominating the first season, he raced to the title with a fair amount of ease. Subsequently, despite finishing first in the Formula BMW world final he was stripped of title following a claim that the driver was involved in brake-testing rivals. The highlight of his career at a young age was his performance at the 2006-2007 season of A1 Grand Prix, where he raced for the German team. By winning nine races in a single season, Nico Hulkenberg wrote his name in the history of A1GP. As far as Formula One is concerned, he has raced for Williams, Sauber and Force India. In the last season, Hulkenberg's best performance came at the Korean Grand Prix in October, 2013, where he came fourth.
Force India, on the other hand, is still trying to make a mark among some big names like Red Bull Racing-Renault, Ferrari, Mercedes and Lotus-Renault. However, despite its lack of experience, the team managed to come sixth in the constructors' championship, an impressive feat. Nothing has been confirmed regarding who will partner Hulkenberg for the 2014 season. While Paul Di Resta and Adrian Sutil look strong contenders, some reports claim that Mexican racer Sergio Perez, who has left McLaren, could also join Force India.
Officials from the team are delighted to have the German driver on board again and are hoping for a great 2014 season. In an official statement, Dr. Vijay Mallya, Team Principal and Managing Director, spoke about his happiness regarding the return of Nico Hulkenberg. “I’m delighted to see Nico back with Sahara Force India. When he drove for us in 2012, it became clear Nico was an exceptional talent and he has continued to impress everyone in the paddock with his strong performances this season. Having Nico in our line-up is a real statement of intent and a huge boost for everyone associated with the team. We have high hopes and expectations for 2014 and by signing Nico we have put ourselves in the best position to achieve those objectives and enjoy what could be our most competitive season yet,” he was quoted as saying.
Slowly but surely, Force India is gaining momentum in the Formula One circuit. Industry experts feel that the team has the potential to do well in the future. Hulkenberg, on his part, spoke about how he is on the same page with the team in terms of future vision and outlook. He also talked about the Mercedes engine that will be used in the racing car. “I am happy to come back to Sahara Force India. The team is aiming high for next year and I believe that the experience I have gained over the years will help us achieve those goals. I genuinely believe we can have a competitive package in 2014. I’ve heard a lot of positive things about the Mercedes engine as well, so I think there is a lot to be excited about for next year. I know this team and I can see their determination; it’s a great bunch of people and we all share the same hunger for success,” he said.
