A huge opportunity for Audi star Nico Hülkenberg: starting from the second row!

A glance at the Formula 1 history books shows that when the weather goes haywire, the more experienced drivers on the grid can benefit – even if they aren’t driving the fastest cars. This was also evident in this year’s qualifying session at Interlagos, which took place in difficult conditions. On a rain-soaked track, the balance of power in the premier class was thrown into disarray.

Added to this is the fact that several top drivers have been demoted down the grid due to engine penalties. Nico Hülkenberg also benefited from this, as he will start the race in São Paulo from fourth on the grid. The German had clocked one fast lap after another in qualifying and ultimately finished sixth fastest. Thanks to the grid penalties for George Russell and Charles Leclerc, he moves up to the second row of the grid.

Speaking about his lap time chase on a rain-soaked track, the 39-year-old Audi works driver said: “That went well, but it wasn’t easy. You could see how many drivers were struggling, especially in the final corner. The conditions were really tricky, but I found a good rhythm and had a lot of confidence in the car right from the start, which is particularly important in situations like this.”

Nico Hülkenberg knows the race will be a real challenge

Nevertheless, the Formula 1 star doesn’t want to go into the race with expectations that are too high. “Of course, it’s very positive to be starting from the second row, and I’m satisfied and happy with that,” he admits. However, he also warns: “But we all know that the points are awarded during the race. And I’ve got a difficult task ahead of me. There are 71 race laps, and some of the top cars are starting from far back due to penalties.”

Hülkenberg knows: “So it’ll be a case of keeping a cool head and getting through it as best I can.” And he promises: “Anything is possible, and we’ll of course try to make the most of this good position to get the maximum out of it.”

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08.11.2026 - 17:10