Nico Hulkenberg says he is entering this weekend’s Formula 1 Sprint “with an open mind” as he prepares for his first experience of the format.
Hulkenberg has started almost 200 grands prix but the upcoming event at Azerbaijan’s Baku City Circuit will be his first taste of a Sprint weekend, having been absent full-time since its inception in 2021.
Hulkenberg’s Sprint debut will coincide with the format’s revised structure, following Tuesday’s confirmation that there will be separate qualifying sessions to determine the respective grids for Sprint and the race.
“It’s the first Sprint for me and obviously from a spectator’s point of view it’s very interesting,” said Hulkenberg.
“For me also it’s much less practice, only one hour, and straight into a meaningful session – it reminds me of my junior days – and I used to like that.
“I go into it with an open mind just accepting the challenge, which is less preparation time, and you need to hit the sweet spot earlier.
“Baku is a pretty spectacular and challenging high-speed circuit so we’re gearing up for a tough but interesting weekend.”
Hulkenberg failed to score in his first two comeback events, in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, but avoided trouble in the chaotic race in Australia to score seventh spot.
“Getting your first points is always positive and it’s a box ticked, it’s done,” he said.
“I feel in the first two races – even in Jeddah – a lot of progress was made behind the scenes and a lot of good work was put into the car and the set-up.
“We’re still experimenting a lot with that so hopefully there’s more to come but definitely it was a nice feeling to have a strong, solid race and come home with points into the break.”
