Hulkenberg happy without Mercedes seat

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Timing and opportunity are often everything in Formula 1, and had Nico Hulkenberg still been on the driver's market when Nico Rosberg retired, he could have been heading to Mercedes.

But the Renault driver says he is unfazed by missing out on a hypothetical chance to race for world championship outfit.

"Mercedes is the long-time engine partner of Force India and we did joint promotional activities for Hockenheim in the summer.

"Rosberg could have quietly told me that he would quit if he won the title," Hulkenberg jokingly told Bild am Sonntag newspaper.

Renault's Stoll: Hulkenberg a perfect fit

At the end of the day, the German says he is perfectly happy with his current prospects at Renault and the chance to help the French manufacturer fulfill its long-term ambitions.

"My goal was to drive for a manufacturer. That's what I've achieved with Renault. We both have unfulfilled goals."

"If you don't drive for Ferrari or Mercedes, there is no coverage and the driver performance is not as linked with the car performance. Nevertheless, I feel a lot of respect for my performance, especially internationally."

Hulkenberg is rumored to be receiving a mega retainer at Renault, estimated to be in the $20 million region although Hulk is mum on the subject.

"You said the number, not me," Hulkenberg insisted.

"But in financial matters, I am typically German, watching every penny and only spending what I won't regret later. I'd rather take my risks on the track."

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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.