German driver Nico Hulkenberg secured his first career podium at the 2025 British Grand Prix, marking a historic moment after 239 race starts. The Kick Sauber F1 driver’s long-awaited breakthrough was celebrated notably by his close friend and Red Bull champion Max Verstappen, who was the first to congratulate him following the race on Sunday.
Known for his consistent performances over the past decade in Formula 1 midfield battles, Hulkenberg’s podium came despite low external expectations this season due to Sauber’s ongoing transition to becoming Audi in the coming year. His achievement at Silverstone highlights his persistence and talent in a demanding field.
Max Verstappen’s Support Following Hulkenberg’s Historic Podium
Max Verstappen’s recognition of Hulkenberg’s success was a significant gesture that underscored their longstanding mutual respect, tracing back to their karting days. Verstappen’s congratulations were among the first after the race, and the two even traveled together on Verstappen’s private jet to Monaco.
“Max was the first guy when I get out of the car that he came. We go way back from karting days. I think we have a lot of respect I mean I have a lot of respect for him for what he does, what he stands for.. a great human being.”
—Nico Hulkenberg, Kick Sauber F1 driver
Hulkenberg Reflects on Team Progress and Race Conditions
In addition to his personal milestone, Hulkenberg acknowledged Kick Sauber’s technical improvements throughout the 2025 season, particularly following upgrades introduced at Barcelona. These upgrades contributed to the team’s recent streak of four consecutive points finishes, enhancing their competitiveness within the midfield.
During the post-race press conference, Hulkenberg noted how race conditions played a crucial role in the outcome and expressed confidence in the team’s upward trajectory.
“If we had a dry race, it would have been a very different day and outcome for us. Whilst we’ve made some really good improvements since Barcelona, today is obviously circumstantial, and the conditions made this race and this result possible.”
“But I feel in the midfield fight we’ve definitely gained some momentum, and we are a serious competitor there. That’s where our fight is, but it’s always about maximizing every race, every weekend, and just trying to do well.”
Emotional Response to Long-Awaited Success
Hulkenberg shared his feelings about achieving this milestone after a lengthy wait throughout his career, emphasizing his belief in his own and the team’s potential.
“It’s been a long time coming, hasn’t it? But, yeah, I always knew we have it in us, I had it in me somewhere. So what a race, coming from virtually last, doing it all over again from last weekend. It’s pretty surreal, to be honest.”
—Nico Hulkenberg, Kick Sauber F1 driver
The celebration of Hulkenberg’s maiden podium extended beyond the track, receiving congratulations from many current and former Formula 1 drivers whom he has competed against over the last 15 years.
Significance of Hulkenberg’s Breakthrough and Future Outlook
Nico Hulkenberg’s first podium not only marks a personal career highlight but also symbolizes Kick Sauber’s rising competitiveness ahead of its transition to Audi. The result demonstrates how the team’s development efforts and driver determination are converging to challenge the midfield’s status quo. Hulkenberg’s success at the British Grand Prix could serve as a catalyst for further strong performances as the 2025 season progresses.
Max Verstappen’s public recognition reinforces the camaraderie and respect that underscore the sport’s competitive spirit, while Hulkenberg’s achievement inspires those who have long awaited similar breakthroughs. With momentum on their side, Kick Sauber and Hulkenberg are well positioned to build on this historic moment in the coming races.
