Historic F1 grand prix return 'quite far from happening'

Nico Hulkenberg has acknowledged that a return of the German Grand Prix appears “far from happening”.

The event last appeared on the F1 schedule in 2019, with Hockenheim bowing out of the sport with one of the most chaotic races of the decade.

F1 has held a grand prix in Germany since then, with Nurburgring step in during the Covid-impacted campaign in 2020 under the Eifel Grand Prix banner.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali recently addressed the potential return of the German Grand Prix, admitting the sport was open to the possibility.

But Hulkenberg does not see such a development anytime soon.

“Time will tell,” Hulkenberg told media including RacingNews365. 

“At the moment it feels and seems quite far from that happening.”

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Hulkenberg backs F1 to bring 'benefits' to new countries

F1 is currently seeing interest from various nations as they attempt to get a spot on the calendar, with Rwanda, South Africa and Thailand among those who have voiced their desire.

However, a new contender has also emerged in Argentina, with the sport enjoying a boost in popularity there due to Franco Colapinto's presence on the grid.

Hulkenberg stated it would be a major benefit for any country to have F1 visit it for a weekend.

“Argentina and Franco have a big impact, they have a huge following, a huge fan base,” Hulkenberg said.

“If F1 has a driver of that nation, that's obviously a big connection point and brings that nation closer to F1. 

“But all in all, it's more F1, it's attractive for a lot of countries to host the venue because it brings a lot of benefits. 

“It brings a lot of attention to the country for that weekend.”