Nico Hulkenberg of Germany and Haas F1 at the drivers' parade during the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 8, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Jayce Illman/Getty Images)
Nico Hulkenberg voiced his disappointment over the penalty he received at the Abu Dhabi GP, which he believes cost him a chance at his elusive first F1 podium and ultimately hindered Haas’ fight for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship, which was eventually claimed by Alpine. Speaking to media, including Sportskeeda, the German driver reflected on the missed opportunity that overshadowed his final race with Haas.
Hulkenberg had qualified in an impressive fourth position, offering a rare opportunity to contend for a podium finish. However, a three-place grid penalty for overtaking two cars at the pit exit, in violation of the race director’s instructions, pushed him back to seventh on the starting grid. The penalty thwarted his momentum and he eventually crossed the line in eighth.
Analyzing the broader championship picture, Hulkenberg admitted that starting ahead of Alpine in Abu Dhabi could have been pivotal in Haas’ bid for sixth in the standings. He also acknowledged that the team’s chances had likely slipped earlier in the season, particularly during the Brazilian and Qatar GPs.
