Hulkenberg accepts F1 career is likely over after Alfa Romeo snub

The 34-year-old German has been seeking a full-time return to the F1 grid ever since losing his Renault seat to Esteban Ocon at the end of 2019.

Hulkenberg made three substitute race appearances for Racing Point last season when Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll each contracted COVID-19 and hoped his cameos would strengthen his comeback bid.

But speaking to German publication Bild, Hulkenberg confirmed he has not held talks with Alfa Romeo about filling what appears to be the sole-remaining available seat on the 2022 F1 grid.

“There are no discussions with Alfa Romeo,” said Hulkenberg, who is acting as Aston Martin’s official reserve driver for 2021.

“That would have been the last option for a firm seat in 2022 after all the other cockpits have been taken.”

Hulkenberg made his debut with Williams in 2010 and claimed a shock maiden pole position at the Brazilian Grand Prix before losing his seat to Pastor Maldonado for the following season.

He joined Force India for 2012 and following a single season at Sauber in 2013 returned to the Silverstone-based outfit for a further three years before switching to Renault in 2017.

Despite earning a reputation as being one of the most consistent midfield drivers, Hulkenberg was replaced by Ocon at Renault at the end of 2019, which remains his last full-time F1 seat.

Having contested a total of 179 grand prix, Hulkenberg holds the unenviable record for most career starts without a podium finish.

Hulkenberg, who has been linked with a move to IndyCar, said “life goes on” after F1 and revealed he has a number of “exciting inquiries” from other series.

“I have exciting inquiries from other series and I am in no hurry to make a decision,” he added. “I’ll sort everything and see how things go on.”