Hulkenberg: Renault F1 has exceeded expectations in 2017

Nico Hulkenberg believes that Renault has exceeded expectations in Formula 1 this year as it continues to rebuild following its return to the sport as a works team in 2016.

Hulkenberg joined Renault for its second season back in F1 this year, and has led its charge by scoring all but six of its 42 constructors' championship points.

While the team only sits seventh in the teams' standings, Hulkenberg has complete faith in the direction Renault is going in, outstripping his own expectations upon arrival at Enstone.

"I have full trust and belief in it. I think we're on a good route," Hulkenberg said.

"There is still plenty to do as we know, but things are definitely moving in the right direction.

"In terms of development, from the start of the year to now, I think we have done better than expected, at least the expectations I personally had.

"I think it's been pretty good so far this year."

Renault announced last weekend in Singapore it would be supplying McLaren with F1 power units in 2018, and Hulkenberg is sure this will act as greater encouragement for the works team.

"They have a strong package now and if we give them our power unit, for sure they will be one of our main competition next year I expect," Hulkenberg said.

"We need to do a good job over the winter."