Hulkenberg to replace Sutil at Force India in 2012

Nico Hulkenberg will be making his return with Force India, as he is replacing Adrian Sutil.
Nico Hulkenberg is returning to Formula One in 2012, after Force India announced their 2012 line-up. The German will be partnered by Paul di Resta, who's rookie season this year was very impressive.

This news leaves Adrian Sutil, who has spent five years with the team, without a drive. Despite the news being expected, Sutil will certainly feel it is harsh after a very strong season in the Force India. The team principal Vijay Mallya said: “Our new line-up means we say ‘goodbye’ to Adrian Sutil, who has been with the team since we entered the sport. He has been an integral part of our success over the past four seasons and we wish him well for the future.”

Hulkenberg takes pole in Brazil 2010

However, Mallya was clearly excited about Hulkenberg: “As for Nico, we identified him as a rising star at the end of 2010 and chose to evaluate him during the course of this season. Despite having only limited time in the car, he convinced us that he deserved a race seat for 2012.” The 2010 Brazilian Grand Prix pole sitter has been Force India's test driver this year, and drove in a few Friday practice sessions, crashing in the Valencia first practice session.

Sutil is expected to move to Williams to partner Pastor Maldonado, still leaving various drivers without a seat in 2012, including both Toro Rossos from 2011, all three Renault's from 2011 and of course, Rubens Barrichello.