Komatsu praises Hulkenberg’s skills but dismisses early championship discussions.
As Nico Hulkenberg gears up to transition from Haas F1 to Sauber, and eventually Audi F1, his current boss at Haas, Ayao Komatsu, acknowledges he will miss the German driver.
However, Komatsu maintains a candid stance on his driver’s potential, noting Hulkenberg’s absence from the Formula 1 podium thus far.
Hulkenberg, a veteran on the F1 grid and still regarded as one of the fastest currently, has caught the eye of Sauber with his stellar form since his 2023 return to Haas. This performance led to him being the first driver signed for Audi’s upcoming F1 project, set to commence at Hinwil next season, with Audi aiming to compete at the front of the grid three years into their entry.
When questioned about whether he believes Hulkenberg has the potential to clinch a title, Komatsu was straightforward.
“Nico is a great driver. But I wouldn’t discuss the World Championship title. He doesn’t even have a podium finish yet,” he pointedly recalls.
“It has to happen step by step. After his first podiums and wins, a driver needs to first demonstrate that they can deliver these performances consistently. I don’t wish to undermine Nico, but I can’t stand here and claim he possesses the qualities of a world champion when he hasn’t even made it to the podium yet!”
Nonetheless, Komatsu views Hulkenberg as one of the finest drivers on the grid, potentially on the path to victory if provided with a competitive car.
“Is he one of the best Formula 1 drivers? Absolutely! Given the right car, he could definitely contend for podiums and victories. He knows how to work within a team and do everything else required.”
“I love working with him. He always speaks his mind honestly and clearly, he drives the team forward. I will certainly miss Nico.”
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Hulkenberg Exceptional, Yet Title Talk Premature: Komatsu Hulkenberg Exceptional, Yet Title Talk Premature: Komatsu
