Nico Hulkenberg Q&A: Monaco Grand Prix
May 23, 2023
Monaco resident Nico Hulkenberg previews his 'local' race, as we head into Round 7 of the 2023 season.
Following the decision to not hold the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix due to flooding in the region, Formula 1 travels next to the Principality for the Monaco Grand Prix. In a calendar full of ‘stand-out’ events, what does Monaco mean to you?
“First of all, I would like to emphasize that our thoughts remain with the people of the Emilia Romagna region. Terrible images that went around the world last week - I hope the region can recover from the catastrophe as soon as possible.
“Regarding Monaco, it’s definitely a race like no other. We're traveling to many special places like Miami, Melbourne, Las Vegas, Singapore etc. but the rodeo ride in Monte Carlo is just another level of intensity and a huge challenge. It's definitely one of my favorites in the calendar.”
Qualifying has become the most intense part of a race weekend with timings and minimal traffic key to getting a clean flying lap. No place is that more important than in Monaco where the risk of yellow flags is high and traffic’s inevitable. How does a driver and their team work together during a session to best navigate all the variables?
“Communication is the key. In order to ‘survive’ on this narrow track with no real straights, every team and their driver have to be prepared for the many imponderables at all times.”
It’s the one race of the year where you get to wake up in your own bed come race day. Does that make preparation easier or is it a strange feeling leaving home to go and race?
“This year's race will be my tenth grand prix in Monaco, and it's definitely a nice feeling to wake up in your own bed and get to the track in the morning on a scooter or bicycle. I also like the time before the race when all the preparations start and you can feel that Formula 1 is coming to town.”