The chances of Nico Hulkenberg remaining on the F1 grid in 2020 are looking increasingly slim – and it seems if a race seat isn’t possible, the German has no interest in hanging around in a supporting role… Hulkenberg was jettisoned by Renault for next season, with Mercedes junior Esteban Ocon taking his place alongside Daniel Ricciardo. Alfa Romeo was a potential destination but that door slammed shut on Monday when they announced Antonio Giovinazzi would be staying put. That leaves just one seat at Williams, racing with George Russell, or joining the Red Bull family with either the senior team or Toro Rosso – but Hulkenberg reckons a return to Williams, the team he made his debut with, is unlikely while the chances of Red Bull looking externally are remote. “I think they [Williams] need somebody else,” said Hulkenberg, who was speaking before Giovinazzi's deal was announced. “I think I’m not the right person, the right driver for them, not at all. It’s just where I am in my career, where they are, and the timings, I just don’t think it’s the right timing for us. With all due respect to the team, and obviously I’ve raced for them and everything, but I don’t think that’s going to happen.”

If you look outside, what is the next best thing? What is the alternative? Formula 1 is still Formula 1. Nico Hulkenberg

If a race seat isn’t possible, taking a reserve, development or simulator role would be one way for Hulkenberg to keep his foot in the door, with Ocon proof that route can pay off. But Hulkenberg said “no, that’s not an option”. If it’s racing Hulkenberg is interested in, it remains unclear what series he might be able to conjure up an opportunity. The German, though, has hinted he might take a break from motorsport completely. READ MORE: Former Ferrari and McLaren technical chief Fry to join Renault in 2020 “Maybe [I will] not race for a while,” said Hulkenberg, who added he expected to know his future plans “two months ago”. “Honestly, I don’t know right now. It depends on what happens and what unfolds here. Once we have that answer, I’ll look at other things. I said that earlier, I don’t want to rush into something or jump on something just to race. It needs to be something that I like, a challenge that excites me. I have no conclusion, no perfect answer for that yet.”

Nico Hulkenberg: I was lacking 'pace, harmony and balance' in the US GP