Nico Hülkenberg (Audi) ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix: “It’s only a matter of time before …”

The situation heading into the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix is the same as it was for the previous Formula 1 races in Miami, Montreal, Monaco and Barcelona – Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto’s Audis are fast enough to finish in the top ten, but they just can’t seem to score any new points. Since the season opener in Melbourne, Australia, when Gabi Bortoleto finished ninth, the Silver Bolids have come away empty-handed.

Ahead of his 257th Grand Prix, Nico Hülkenberg says: “The result in Barcelona was disappointing, because we had the pace, the position and the opportunity to secure a good result. Nevertheless, the last two races have shown that we are taking steps in the right direction in terms of performance.”

“We have the pace to fight for points, and it’s only a matter of time before we reap the rewards of our hard work.”

“Next up is Spielberg, and that’s always a fantastic event with a unique layout and a special setting. It’s a short circuit, deceptively simple: you don’t get many chances to make up for mistakes, so a good qualifying session is crucial. But the most important thing is to have a clean weekend overall – three solid days without any mistakes.”

Gabriel Bortoleto adds: “We’re heading to Austria knowing that we should have scored points in the last few races but didn’t. Whilst that’s frustrating, we’re also aware of the performance we’re capable of, so we’re looking forward to another chance to finish in the top ten.”

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“I have very fond memories of last year’s race at Spielberg: I scored my first Formula 1 points here, and it was a brilliant day for the team – Nico was in the points too. We’d obviously love to repeat that this year. I have every confidence in the team’s work and am looking forward to the battles we’ll have this weekend.”