Nico Hulkenberg Hints at “Better Chance” of 2022 F1 Comeback After Red Bull Snub

Nico Hulkenburg has had a solid 10-year career within F1. However, he holds a record he wouldn’t be proud of. He has the most race starts without a podium. This saw him not get a seat for the 2020 season. However, he was close to getting the second Red Bull seat for the 2021 season after Alex Albon’s struggles with the RB16. But he was pipped to the post by Sergio Perez.

Nico Hulkenburg didn’t have a seat in F1 for 2020 but he was employed as a super-sub by Racing Point for three race weekends. His performances were encouraging led to unconfirmed reports that he may have an F1 day for 2021. But, he still remains without a contract with an F1 team.

Nico Hulkenburg disappointed over Red Bull near miss

In an interview, Hulkenburg opened up about the possibility of joining Red Bull for 2021. He said, “Of course I would have liked to have driven for Red Bull, let’s not doubt that. But that is not the case now. Ultimately, it is their (Red Bull’s) decision.”

The German, however, wasn’t interested in being Red Bull’s third driver. He said, “That was never an option. At the end of the year it was more about the ‘head office’ (a racing seat), but that went to Checo as everyone knows.”

“Red Bull was quick to agree that Albon would become a reserve driver so of course I was approached by other teams.”

The 33-year-old, however, remains optimistic over his future prospects in F1. He said, “It is important for me to stay in and around Formula 1 and to grab an opportunity when it comes along.”

“With an oblique eye I also look to 2022. Whatever is about to happen, maybe I have a better chance of a comeback?”

Can the Hulk return to F1 in the near future?

The German will have to be very patient if he hopes to make a comeback in F1. He should look to explore other motorsport series like for example, Indy Car, etc.

Like he said his best chance to return to F1 is 2022. And he will be keeping a close eye on the goings on at Alfa Romeo and Williams.

Williams could lose George Russell to Mercedes if the German team decide to head his way. That leaves an open seat for him to try.

Alfa Romeo could see Kimi Raikkonen leaving and that would be another realistic target for Hulkenburg.