What is Nico Hulkenberg's greatest fear?

Renault's Nico Hulkenberg was put in the firing line of Formula1.com for a proper grilling in which the German confessed a few inner secrets.

It's a well-known fact that the 2015 Le Mans winner has yet to score a podium in F1, but what else can we learn about Nico?

Hulk apparently has a nickname for himself, 'the king of chill', for his propensity to be a 'couch potato' when he's away from the race track.

His greatest fear in life ?

"Spiders. Seeing one turns me into a screaming little girl," he says.

Interestingly, the topic of the latest book read by Hulkenberg was on Donald Trump, because "It is good to have a little idea about the new American President."

No surprises in the 'guilty pleasures' section, with the Renault stalwart confessing his weakness for chocolate, and the opportunity to indulge thanks to F1's new-spec cars! What..?

"I have such a sweet tooth - always have had. And now with cars that forgive more (weight-wise), it is not as strictly necessary to keep the fingers off that brown, sweet temptation!"

Upcoming venues fuel Abiteboul's strong outlook

If granted a super power - which the Hulk already enjoys by the way - he would choose the ability to fly.

"No airports, no queuing up at counters - just spread your wings and fly!"

If ever you cross paths with Nico Hulkenberg, you may think twice before indulging in a selfie, because, "People taking selfies with me, I hate that."

Nico's wish list of dinner guests is a fairly diverse group: "Donald Trump, Usain Bolt and - to spice it up - Marilyn Monroe."

Finally, channeling his inner child, Hulkenberg reminisced about his teenage years.

"You have no luggage," he says.

"You can do things without thinking about any consequences, because somebody else is taking care of you."

Gallery: Alonso's Indy 500 challenger

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.