did it in 2009, but before him there was a huge gap” Nico correctly points out. “But I feel it gives me something and I’m also proud to do this. To manage both (categories) is obviously a big challenge for me, but it’s a unique opportunity to be racing at Le Mans with Porsche”.
Managing both schedules didn’t appear to bother Hulkenberg when we first posed the question to him in March, but Hulkenberg now admits the juggling act between Formula One and his WEC races at Spa and Le Mans hasn’t exactly been a walk in the park despite winning the blue riband event on his first attempt.
“It is quite demanding. It’s a three week push (for Montreal, Le Mans and the Austria), but afterwards I have a break in July where things are a bit more quiet with the summer break in August” Nico explains. “It’s a busy time but I still get a couple of days off to recharge and be fresh in Austria.”
As it did a few years ago, the Montreal Grand Prix will clash with Le Mans next year. Does this affect Nico’s plans to defend his Le Mans crown?
“I wasn’t aware of that” says Nico unperturbed. “It’s probably too far away in the future. Calendars are very flexible though until they get confirmed so I won’t waste any energy thinking about that now”.
No energy wasted and nothing held back where it really matters. It’s a wonder Formula One hasn’t caught on yet.