Nico Hulkenberg says he isn’t disappointed with his Formula 1 career despite a lack of achievements.
The German is currently fighting for his place on the grid for 2020 after being ousted by Renault and replaced by Esteban Ocon for next year.
With options appearing limited, it is already leading to questions about whether he has any regrets, given the general view that Hulkenberg has never had the car to match his talent.
“Of course I do about certain things, certain decisions, certain situations, but it’s part of life as well,” he told France’s Auto Hebdo.
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“At the end of the day, I’ve been here for 10 years, 10 cool and intense seasons, and yes there could have been more success, but it could have been worse too.”
The one record which most associate Hulkenberg with is the most Grand Prix starts without a podium, that number is 174.
While he has had a number of fourth-place finishes during his career, the biggest missed chance most flashback to is the 2012 Brazilian GP which Nico led before colliding with Lewis Hamilton.
“The manoeuvre went wrong, but I will not self-flagellate for 100 years,” he reflected.
“If you don’t try to overtake when you can, you should change jobs.
“Of course there is sometimes frustration, even bitterness, but I personally sleep very well at night.”
Among the reasons given for Renault’s decision to axe Hulkenberg, is a claim by team boss Cyril Abiteboul that he hasn’t capitalised on opportunities to push his career forward.
“I don’t agree with Cyril, a few mistakes, a bad career choice, and you quickly find yourself in a situation like mine,” he replied.
“It’s all about details in F1.”