Fernando Alonso has come out in support of Nico Hulkenberg, claiming the German is amongst one of the best drivers on the current grid.
Hulkenberg looks set to lose out on a top seat once again – amidst rumours the Lotus/Quantum deal is a non-starter – despite often being rated highly by fans and those in the paddock.
Alonso agrees and even believes the 26-year-old could rank alongside those considered to be the very best, but he needs a good car to show it.
“For me Nico is one of the best drivers on the grid,” he said on Thursday. “I said that three years ago, and now everyone seems to have discovered him.
“He is doing a great job. I think it’s no surprise – he was doing an amazing job [in 2010 with Williams],” added the Spaniard. “Getting pole position here [Brazil], in difficult conditions, was a sign of his talent.
“Hopefully we see him in a competitive car in the future.”
It’s looking likely that Lotus will be forced to take Pastor Maldonado or potentially Sergio Perez if the necessary money can be found, whilst Hulkenberg is rumoured to have spoken to Force India and current employer Sauber.
