Hulkenberg to miss only Mexico

Autosport magazine revealed last week that Hulkenberg will be replaced by Formula BMW world champion Christian Vietoris at Mexico City for the ninth round of the season, and possibly at the final two rounds as well, at Shanghai and Brands Hatch.

However team owner Willi Weber has issued a statement today, clarifying that Hulkenberg will only be replaced in for the Mexico round because of a clash of dates, as he begins racing in the F3 Euro Series with ASM.

"Speculation in the press stating that Nico Hulkenberg will no longer compete in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport for A1 Team Germany after the eighth round is unfounded and without substance," Weber said.

"On the contrary, I stress that A1 Team Germany will only see Christian Vietoris racing at the ninth round, between 23 and 25 March, in Mexico. Nico Hulkenberg will be prevented from competing on this weekend due to a clash of dates.

"At the same time we will systematically build-up Christian Vietoris for his future in the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport and give him the possibility to start his first race in Mexico, in order to lead our driving squad in the forthcoming season.

"Nico will continue to fight for the title for A1 Team Germany, since he will contest the eighth round in Durban as well as the tenth and eleventh rounds in both Shanghai and at Brands Hatch.

"I'm delighted that Nico can put his immense talent to the test in our team this season. The A1GP World Cup of Motorsport also provides him with an enormous chance to be recognised internationally."

Hulkenberg has so far taken six victories this season, giving Team Germany a 25-point lead in the standings.