Formula 1: Nico Hulkenberg Says He Is Not Done

Niko Hulkenberg has stated he does not feel like retiring from Formula 1 despite looking to be out of options on the grid for the 2020 season.

His contract with Renault is set to end at the end of the season. Red Bull, Toro Rosso and Alfa Romeo were all likely to sign up the driver, but they have finalized their lineups for the next season.

The only option left would be Williams though he has already indicated he is not likely to return, even if they gave him his Formula 1 debut in 2010.

These deliberations are the reason public opinion believes he may not be able to participate in Formula 1 going forward. That and the fact he has already had a stable career with Formula 1.

However, Hulkenberg replied to these sentiments, saying he did not feel like retiring from formula 1.

McClaren driver Carlos Sainz Jr said he was mystified as to why no team had snatched him up for the 2020 season.

Sainz, who was his teammate at Renault in 2018, said Nico would be a big loss for the sport if it was not on the grid next year.

Sainz added he thought he was one of the most talented drivers in the grid over the last ten years.

Hulkenberg is not resigned to his fate, though. He said he does not feel he is leaving Formula 1. He may not be on the grid, but if there is an opportunity, he is going to be ready for it.

While Hulkenberg’s chances to remain within Formula 1 have reduced significantly, he indicated he could consider a part-time stint in IndyCar.

He claimed he is in a relaxed state of mind and just wants to finish the 2019 season successfully. After that, he expects to take some time to himself and see what next to do.

He reiterated he does not want to rush into something else just for the purpose of racing.

He did mention that he does not want to race on the ovals, which make up five races on the IndyCar calendar for 2020. It did not entice him, and he believes he has too much respect for that.

While he indicated he might not make a decision on his future until 2020, Hulkenberg did mention he could race in DTM but referred to the choice as racing because of boredom. He allocated the experience as having no substance.