Nico Hulkenberg was not present in the paddock on Thursday (Image: Getty)
was not present in the paddock on media day after contracting a cold. The team released a statement on Thursday, describing his absence as a ‘preventative measure’.
In a team statement, Haas explained: “Nico will be missing media day due to a cold, therefore he has no availability for today,” a statement read. This is purely a preventative measure ahead of the weekend.”
For Haas, it is critical that Hulkenberg gets back to full fitness in time to put in a competitive performance at the Lusail International Circuit.
The American squad are mired in a tense battle with Alpine and for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship, with just four points separating the three teams heading into the final two races.
Hulkenberg has been a major factor behind Haas’ ability to battle for P6 – the veteran German has recorded top-10 finishes in four of the last five races, contributing 35 of the team’s 50 total points over the season.
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Haas are battling for P6 in the Constructors’ Championship (Image: Getty)
While Hulkenberg can rest easy knowing that he has a long-term future at Sauber in 2025 and beyond, team-mate ‘s future is far less assured.
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