Nico Hulkenberg confirmed as Sergio Perez substitute at Racing Point

Racing Point

Hulkenberg confirmed as Perez substitute at Racing Point

Perez tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday

Sam Hall

Friday 31 July 2020 11:59 Updated: 12:10

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Racing Point has confirmed Nico Hulkenberg will replace Sergio Perez for tthis weekend's British Grand Prix.

Stoffel Vandoorne and Esteban Gutierrez are officially listed as the reserve drivers for Racing Point, Mercedes and McLaren for 2020.

Vandoorne, however, is currently in Berlin challenging for the Formula E title with Mercedes and the latter has not competed in F1 for almost four years, a fact that is believed to have caused Racing Point some concern.

Hulkenberg's familiarity with the team was key.

Hulkenberg said: “I was on my way to the Nürburgring for another racing project when the call from Otmar [Szafnauer, team principal] came.

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"That was less than 24 hours ago, so it feels a bit surreal for me right now, but I like a good challenge and this is certainly one.

"It’s obviously a difficult situation for Racing Point and Checo. He’s a buddy of mine, an old team-mate and I wish him a speedy recovery. I’ll step in and try to do the best I can for the team!”

Hulkenberg, who has only missed three grands prix, was considered by many as unfortunate not to have a drive for this season.

The German also has experience of working with the Silverstone-based team after racing with the outfit initially in 2012, and again between 2014-2016.

Szafnauer said: “Having to find a replacement for Sergio at short notice is no easy task, but in Nico we’ve got a fantastic super sub who the team knows very well.

"He’s certainly being thrown in at the deep end, but he’s a fast learner and I’m sure he will get up to speed quickly.”

Hulkenberg could benefit from the UK government's decision this week to extend the isolation period for those who have tested positive for Covid-19 from seven to 10 days.

If so, it means Hulkenberg will again be in the car for next weekend's 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, again at Silverstone.

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