Hülkenberg sees Verstappen as a 'no-nonsense guy': "I can appreciate that"

Nico Hülkenberg has known Max Verstappen for many years, and therefore the German knows better than anyone that the two-time world champion is a no-nonsense guy. Hülkenberg appreciates that Verstappen wears his heart on his sleeve and is also an incredibly talented Formula 1 driver. The German is open to a collaboration with Verstappen, but he also acknowledges that it is the most challenging seat on the grid.

Hülkenberg has known Verstappen since he was about seven years old, and it is evident that the two have a friendly relationship. They are often seen chatting in the paddock, and they frequently have fun during media sessions. After all, the 35-year-old also speaks Dutch since he often raced on Dutch soil. Verstappen and Hülkenberg go way back, and the German also sees the type of driver Verstappen has become. "How do I see Max? I see an absolute killer," Hülkenberg begins in an interview with the AD.

"He is incredibly good. He has so much natural talent, but he is also very kind and a charming person. He is a no-nonsense guy. Max just tells you how it is, he is honest, and I can appreciate that," the Haas driver continues. Lately, Hülkenberg has also been mentioned as a possible option to replace Sergio Pérez at Red Bull Racing. The Mexican is currently not delivering the performances that the top team demands, but it doesn't seem like the Austrian team will bring in the man from Emmerich.

Hülkenberg sees challenge: 'Being next to Max is the ultimate challenge'

At the end of the 2019 season, Helmut Marko had already spoken to Hülkenberg a few times, but it didn't go beyond conversations. "I did talk to Helmut, yes. I myself never really had the feeling that it was becoming serious," Hülkenberg explains. "That would have been great, with such a top team. And also not, because being alongside Max is the ultimate challenge. That is probably the most difficult seat on the grid," the German says.