Racing Point confirms the return to F1 of the Hulk!

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Racing Point has confirmed that Nico Hulkenberg will replace Sergio Perez in this weekend's British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

Perez was ruled out of the fourth round of the 2020 F1 world championship after testing positive for COVID-19.

Hulkenberg raced for Racing Point, during its guise as Force India, from 2012 to 2017.

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

"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."

Sad Perez bewildered by positive COVID-19 test

Hulkenberg explained the events that unfolded for him in the past 24 hours.

"I was on my way to the Nürburgring for another racing project when the call from Otmar came," said the German driver.

"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 do the best I can for the team!"

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.