Nico Hulkenberg’s continuing search to end his podium drought in Formula 1 gained attention after his strong showing at the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix. Despite scoring points and delivering consistent performances, the German driver remains without a podium finish in his F1 career spanning over 237 races. Former GP2 Series champion and F1 TV presenter Davide Valsecchi publicly criticized the sport for this oversight following Hulkenberg’s impressive run in Montreal.
Hulkenberg has been regarded as an underdog in recent seasons, particularly in 2025, when he has persisted despite limited team resources. Returning twice to Formula 1, his latest comeback occurred in 2023 when he took over from Mick Schumacher at Haas. His solid results there earned him a seat with the future Audi-backed Sauber team, a move he was eager to embrace.
However, Sauber’s 2025 car has struggled to consistently compete in the midfield battle, casting doubt over Hulkenberg’s ability to regularly challenge for points. Still, he delivered noteworthy performances in the early part of the year, including a points finish at the Australian opener, a fifth-place result in Spain, and another points-scoring eighth place at the Canadian GP.
Valsecchi expressed his admiration and frustration on the F1 TV post-race show, highlighting Hulkenberg’s overlooked talent:
“I’m amazed about this man… On the sporting side, it is unfair that this man didn’t get any podium in F1 because your career is so good and I hope for the future gives you the chance because you are rock solid at the moment. Well done.”
—Davide Valsecchi, Former GP2 Champion and F1 TV Presenter
The Impactful Performance at the Canadian Grand Prix
Starting from 11th on the grid in Montreal, Hulkenberg carefully advanced three positions during the 70-lap race, crossing the line in eighth place and adding valuable points to his championship tally. While the Sauber C45 has not been a regular contender for top midfield positions, Hulkenberg’s skill behind the wheel has helped maximize its performance when opportunities arise.
His race in Canada benefited from key incidents early in the event involving competitors Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto, whose on-track misfortunes allowed Hulkenberg to gain positions. Speaking about the race dynamics and his approach to avoid trouble, Hulkenberg shared on the post-race show:
“It was a good fun little race, clean. Stayed out of trouble on lap one and Franco [Colapinto] and Alex [Albon] were doing the work for me, I picked them up on the exit of turn nine, which was very-very handy. From there onward, just managed the car and the tires and kind of cover the position.”
—Nico Hulkenberg, Sauber Driver
Current Championship Standing and What Lies Ahead
With the four points earned from Canada, Hulkenberg’s total now stands at 20 points across the first 10 races of the season, positioning him 11th in the Drivers’ Championship. While the podium remains elusive, his consistent point finishes reflect a determined effort to capitalize on every opportunity that the 2025 season presents.
Hulkenberg’s perseverance amid a challenging car and midfield competition highlights the importance of skill and resilience in Formula 1. As Sauber prepares to develop its package with Audi’s entrance on the horizon, the hope remains that Hulkenberg will soon break through his long-awaited podium barrier, ending one of the sport’s most notable droughts.
