Hülkenberg thrilled with Monza result despite driving "largely quiet" race

Renault driver Nico Hülkenberg felt thrilled for his and his team's performance on the weekend during the Italian Grand Prix, as the French works team got their best points-haul since 2008 by finishing fourth and fifth.

The Hülk had a great start to the race, lining up in sixth but quickly having a go at Sebastian Vettel in the Ferrari. The number 27 got ahead of Vettel and got a tow to keep him ahead for a bit, although Vettel inevitably came back at him to take his place back.

Hülkenberg's teammate Daniel Ricciardo then overtook the German, and when Vettel had his infamous spin, the Renaults found themselves in fourth and fifth. To make things even better for the team, McLaren's Carlos Sainz retired from a promising position and Lando Norris only finished tenth. It means Renault are just 18 points behind the Woking-based team now in the constructors' championship as they look to win back-to-back in the midfield table. 

“I’m very pleased after that result," Hülkenberg said post-race as he finished behind Ricciardo in P5.

"The team deserve it as it’s been a tough year for us with some difficult results and moments. It’s a nice reward for everyone involved for the hard work.

"For me, it was a straightforward race. I made a strong start with two overtakes and managed to hold good track position. From there it was about maintaining that, making no mistakes and keeping calm. I had some pressure at the end but I managed to fend that off.

"It was largely quiet and controlled and a very good team result with Daniel just ahead!”