Hulkenberg: Excitement – the word I keep using to describe how I’m feeling

Mar.13 (PVM-Force India) Last year Nico Hulkenberg spent a great deal of time on the Force India pit wall gantry, as he fulfilled the reserve role for the team. This weekend he is set for his first race with the team and marks a most welcome return to the F1 grid for the highly rated young German, who was axed from Williams at the end of 2012 - despite a stellar rookie season - when he did not have a budget at his disposal to take to the struggling former world champions.

You’re all set for your first race as a Sahara Force India race driver. How does it feel?
Nico Hulkenberg: There’s a lot of excitement – that’s the word I keep using to describe how I’m feeling. And I think it will continue until the Sunday morning in Melbourne when I wake up knowing I will be racing again in a few hours. That’s when you feel the buzz and get the feeling of anticipation in your stomach.

Do you feel you are back up to speed after a year away from racing?
NH: The testing has gone pretty well and it’s been crucial for helping me get prepared. But I know testing is very different to racing because you don’t have the same pressures of a race weekend. I think the true test will be qualifying when you have to deliver right away and you only get one chance.

Is the Australian Grand Prix one of your favourite events on the calendar?
NH: My first race there in 2010 was cut short – only half a lap, but apart from that I have good memories from Melbourne and Australia in general. It’s one of those venues with a special atmosphere and the whole city seems so relaxed and friendly. It’s definitely up there with races like Monaco and Singapore in terms of the atmosphere and support from the fans.