Nico Hulkenberg is being linked with a shock Formula 1 exit.

Amid rumours he could be replaced at Renault by Esteban Ocon next year, and links with Red Bull, a new rumour swept the paddock in Austria about an approach by Porsche's Formula E team.

But although he won Le Mans with Porsche in 2015, he says his focus is on F1.

"There are also options with Renault that can still work," he is quoted by Auto Motor und Sport. "Maybe some of it will take care of itself.

"I can still sleep well in the next few weeks," Hulkenberg added.

German Hulkenberg holds the unenviable record for being the driver in history with the most race starts without a single podium.

He is widely respected, but at present is struggling to shine alongside his new teammate Daniel Ricciardo.

"He knows what he's doing," Hulkenberg smiled when asked about the Australian.

"With me, for some reason it hasn't always worked out, sometimes because of me, sometimes because of technology, sometimes because of circumstances.

"But I will do everything I can to turn the statistics around."

As for 2020, Hulkenberg's future remains open for now.

"It's all very simple: I would like a competitive car," said the 31-year-old. "At the moment there's nothing to say. I'm focused on the racing.

"There's no rush anyway, so let's see how it goes."

(GMM)