ASTON MARTIN F1 team have signed up Nico Hulkenberg as their reserve and development driver for the 2021 season.

The German raced for the team under its previous guise as Force India between 2012 and 2016.

He also filled in for Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez last season when both Racing Point drivers tested positive for COVID-19.

The 33-year-old has competed in 176 F1 races with Williams, Sauber and Renault, as well as his stints at Force India and Racing Point.

Hulkenberg said: “First of all, it’s great to get this deal signed up with plenty of notice – last year, I didn’t have quite as much time to prepare before jumping in the car! 

"I’m really pleased to once again work with this team – with whom I have driven many times during my career. 

"Obviously, I’m hoping that Sebastian Vettel and Lance enjoy uninterrupted seasons this year, but the team knows it can rely on me to step in and do an excellent job, and I’m fully prepared to take on that challenge. 

"It will also be interesting to help develop the team through the season, and I’m really looking forward to pulling great lap-times out of my arm sleeve.”

FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

Otmar Szafnauer, CEO and Team Principal, added: “We’re delighted to be able to welcome Nico back to the team in an official capacity, as reserve and development driver for Aston Martin. 

"In these difficult times, the requirement for a capable and experienced reserve driver is especially important. 

"Nico proved last year that he could jump in the car and perform superbly at a moment’s notice; now, with additional scope for preparation and integration, we know that we can rely on Nico to do an excellent job."

Source: Read Full Article