Hungarian GP: It’s make or break for Piquet!

The Hungarian weekend promises to be highly tense within the Renault clan. Much like Bourdais two weeks ago in Germany, Nelson Piquet might not survive this race. This year, it is followed by the traditional month-long summer break before the next F1 meeting. One could even say that the Brazilian must score points to keep his hopes alive.

What could be an advantage this weekend is that Piquet has a good record at the Hungaroring. He has delivered very good performances across all series in the past. Finally, and this will be an indicator, his R29 and his teammate Fernando Alonso’s will be identical, featuring the same level of technological advancements. Now all that’s left is to wait for the results…

Nelson, you had a mixed weekend in Germany. Tell us about this Grand Prix…

« The weekend was not easy because the weather was constantly changing, especially during the qualifying session. Getting into Q3 was satisfying, but my start wasn’t very good and I struggled to get my tires up to temperature. This cost me several positions in the first lap. Then, I was constantly pushing, but my car wasn’t equipped with the latest technical developments that Fernando [Alonso] had. So it was difficult for me to progress in the pack and achieve the same performances as him. »

You have been competitive in Hungary in the past. Are you looking forward to being there?

« I really enjoyed Hungary last year, it was probably one of my best races because I finished 6th there. I also won a GP2 Series race at the Hungaroring. Even though the track doesn’t have fast corners, it’s a zigzag course where I enjoy driving. It reminds me of karting circuits and still presents a challenge: you have to find a good rhythm and be precise in the slow corners, because the exit of one corner is already the entry to the next. Even the smallest mistake can be costly. »

What are your goals for the Hungarian Grand Prix?

« I should benefit from the same developments as Fernando in Hungary and I think I can be more competitive. As always, my goal will be to qualify in the top ten and I hope to be able to score points. The qualifying session will be crucial because it’s difficult to overtake at the Hungaroring. The braking zones are limited and the track is dirty off the racing line. Therefore, it will be important for us to focus on qualifying. »

According to a statement from the Renault F1 Team