Nico Hulkenberg feels that Germany has been "spoilt" by its representation in Formula 1 as he prepares to be its sole racer on the grid in 2023.
Following the retirement of Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher losing his seat at Haas, Germany was faced with the prospect of not having a driver on the grid for the first time since 1981.
However, 2020 Formula 2 champion Schumacher was replaced by compatriot Hulkenberg, meaning the run continues - with Vettel himself in a similar position during that '20 season.
Speaking after making his testing debut with Haas, Hulkenberg revealed he isn't bothered by being the sole representative and that his homeland has been too indulged with Formula 1 success in recent years.
Hulkenberg on Germany success
"I think that it comes in waves," Hulkenberg told media, including RacingNews365.com, when asked about the lack of German representation in 2023.
"Some nations like France for a long time they had nothing and then Romain [Grosjean], Pierre [Gasly] and Esteban [Ocon].
"It's just natural that waves of nations come and go into F1.
"Obviously Germany, over the decades was very spoilt in F1, having Michael [Schumacher], [Nico] Rosberg and Sebastian and obviously Mercedes as a manufacturer as well.
"We still have Mercedes as a manufacturer, but I feel no pressure from that side [of being the only German driver]."
Viewed by others:
Germans on grid when Hulkenberg made debut in 2010
| Driver | Team | When they left F1 |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Schumacher | Mercedes | 2012 |
| Nico Rosberg | Mercedes | 2016 |
| Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull | 2022 |
| Nico Hulkenberg | Williams | - |
| Adrian Sutil | Force India | 2014 |
| Nick Heidfeld | Sauber | 2011 |
| Timo Glock | Virgin | 2012 |
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