Nico Hulkenberg is refusing to get ahead of himself despite finishing at the top of the timesheets on the third day of Formula 1 pre-season testing in Barcelona.
Hulkenberg enjoyed his first run-out in the 2016 Force India VJM09 on Wednesday, and managed to top both the morning and afternoon sessions, ultimately finishing 2.7 seconds clear at the head of the field.
Speaking to reporters in Barcelona on Wednesday, Hulkenberg was pleased with the test and believes that Force India's running is going to plan, but is refusing to get too excited by the times.
"I think we’re on target, on schedule," Hulkenberg said. "I’m learning about the car and the set-up. So far it’s good.
"To be honest I wouldn’t get too excited in these early stages. Today we tried a bit more to test where our package stands at the moment, more than our competition. There’s no reason to get over excited. I think the package looks OK so far, but still a lot of work ahead."
Hulkenberg said that he quickly felt at ease behind the wheel of the car after the long winter, and expects to become more comfortable with the more mileage he racks up.
"For sure you feel it if you haven’t been in the car for a few months," Hulkenberg said. "I think it would be unnatural to get back in and first lap be shining.
"But to be honest that happened quite quickly. Within one or two runs I think the major dust layer was off. Still, run by run, you get more into it."
