Renault-bound Nico Hulkenberg is hoping final race for Force India this weekend will be a “celebration” as the team look to clinch fourth in the standings.
Hulkenberg, F1’s nearly man, will end his second spell with the Silverstone outfit to move to the French manufacturer in the hope of one last shot at the big time.
Heading to Abu Dhabi, Force India sit 27 points ahead of rivals Williams in the Constructors’ Championship, meaning they will more than likely wrap up a career-best fourth place, which would mark the perfect send-off for Hulkenberg.
“The final race of the season is always special, but this year even more so,” the German said. “It will be my final race with the team, so it will be emotional to work with the crew and the other team members for one last time. People move around teams a lot in Formula One, so I know it’s a goodbye and not a farewell.
“I want to enjoy this last race together and make sure it turns into a celebration: I want us to confirm fourth place in the championship, then we will see a lot of big smiles on everyone’s faces and be proud of what we achieved together.”
Moreover, Hulkenberg is confident the power-hungry Yas Marina Circuit, where Force India finished fifth and seventh last year, will play to the strengths of the Mercedes-powered VJM09.
“Looking at the track characteristics, Abu Dhabi should suit us really well,” he said. “We had a few strong results in the last few years and I am confident we can get a good one this time around too. I would love nothing more than to sign off from the team in style.”
The 29-year old is one of six drivers bidding farewell to their respective teams this weekend, alongside his replacement Esteban Ocon, the retiring Felipe Massa, Haas-bound Kevin Magnussen, the axed Esteban Gutierrez and Jenson Button, who will take a nominal sabbatical next year.
