New Delhi: Nico Hulkenberg’s immediate focus is to win the elusive podium in Force India’s “proper” home race in Greater Noida later this month even if he eventually decides to race for Sauber next year.
Hulkenberg goes into the October 26-28 Indian Grand Prix on a high, having performed impressively in the second half of the season.
The German came fourth in the first race after the break in Belgium, followed up with seventh in Suzuka and sixth in Korea on Sunday.
“As a team it is a very special race for us – the proper home race and one of the busiest races of the year. As a target we have to aim for some good points. The last few races have shown the speed is there to do that and even get close to the podium,” Hulkenberg said.
He feels the tracks at remaining races of the season in India, Abu Dhabi, Austin (USA) and Brazil should suit the car, leaving the possibility of overtaking Sauber for sixth place in the constructors’ championship. Force India are on 89 points while Sauber on 116.
Speculation over the 25-year-old moving to Sauber was rife at the paddock last weekend. Hulkenberg, however, plays it down saying his focus is on 2012.
“I really enjoy racing for this team, I know all the guys well. Right now my focus is on the current season and doing my best.”
Asked how the season has panned out for him after very little track time last year, Hulkenberg said, “I think it took me a few races to get back into the groove because I was only the team’s third driver in 2011. Even though I was able to take part in some practice sessions, it is not the same as racing. (IANS)