Nico Hulkenberg isn’t ruing what could have been after missing out on the Red Bull seat for 2021.
After impressive substitute performances for Racing Point at Silverstone and Nurburgring, the German was mentioned as a possible option to replace Alex Albon for this season.
It was even suggested Hulkenberg had the blessing of friend Max Verstappen, but instead, Red Bull opted to go for the man Nico replaced for two races last year, Sergio Perez.
“Of course I would have liked to be at Red Bull, no question about it,” the German told Motorsport-Total.com. “But that is currently not up for debate because, in the end, it is their decision.”
Also Read:
- Hulkenberg ‘said no’ to 2021 F1 seat but eyes 2022 return
- Perez: Experience & Sunday skills key to challenging Verstappen
- Hulkenberg was Mercedes’ 2nd choice after Hamilton to replace Schumacher
Hulkenberg though is expected to be around the F1 paddock this season, not only retaining his reserve driver role at the rebranded Aston Martin but also reportedly with Mercedes and even McLaren.
“Nothing today,” he said on if there was anything to announce. “For me, it’s about staying in Formula 1 orbit this year. Using the opportunity, if it comes, as best as possible.
“And again look with an eye on 2022: Is there anything going on again? Is there another comeback?”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff though did essentially let the cat out of the bag with these comments at the W12 launch.
“[Nico is] one of the top drivers who somehow didn’t get that last chance to drive for a top team,” he said. “We all know what he is capable of.
“To have such a resource in the team is of course interesting [so] we are open to that,” he continued. “The question is not when the decision will be made, but when it will be announced.”
Mercedes has already announced both Formula E drivers, Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries, as reserve drivers for the F1 team. but Hulkenberg would likely cover on weekends where the two series’ clash.