Nico Hulkenberg admits Formula One drivers can get hot under the collar whilst racing but the Force India ace says Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel “is very special in that regard”.
Growing frustration led the Ferrari star to a radio meltdown of epic proportions at last weekend’s Mexican Grand Prix, with Vettel going as far as telling FIA race director Charlie Whiting to “f**k off!”.
“It’s always the world against Seb,” Hulkenberg replied when asked on his compatriot’s infamous rant. “I’m sure Charlie is not that happy, not impressed. Of course, sometimes you go ‘what a wanker’ or ‘what an idiot’ but usually they cut it out.
“But it does happen in the heat of the race, don’t take this wrong but in the media centre or at home on the couch, everything is on the limit with the finest margins and you try hard. So if something doesn’t go right you just feel ‘Aghhh’. Seb is very special in that regard.”
Formula One’s governing body considered calling the German in front of the International Tribunal for his foul language but eventually decided against punishing Vettel in the light of his immediate apologies and the letters he sent to both Whiting and FIA president Jean Todt.
FEATURE: Foul Play or Foul Language
Scene at the 2016 Mexican Grand Prix
Mexican Grand Prix - Quotes of the week
DRIVER RATINGS: Mexican Grand Prix
15 minutes with ... Nico Rosberg
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Many F1 drivers have stared danger in the face, but few moments in the sport’s…
Carroll Shelby was born on this day in 1923, and while the great Texan is…
Nick Cassidy delivered to Citroen Racing its maiden ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in…
Franco Colapinto endured a tough season with Alpine in 2025, but inside Enstone the message…
As Williams continues its steady ascent under the leadership of James Vowles, the Grove-based outfit…
In the world of Formula 1, where career ladders are often climbed with ruthless ambition,…