Nico Hulkenberg is hoping a strong backing will help him bounce back at this week’s Austrian Grand Prix.

Enstone-based Renault endured a frustrating race in Azerbaijan two weeks ago, with both the German and teammate Jolyon Palmer retiring.

Hulkenberg broke the steering arm after hitting the inside wall in Baku.

But he is in an upbeat mood ahead of Formula 1’s trip to the Red Bull Ring this weekend, when he is expecting strong support from German fans who have travelled across the border.

He said: “The atmosphere is very relaxed and lots of German fans make the short trip over the border, so it almost feels like a home race for me.

“I love racing in Spielberg especially with the backdrop to the track, with the Alps.

“It’s spectacular, and there is an old-school vibe to the circuit which I enjoy.”