Renault thank Hulkenberg for his service

Renault boss Cyril Abiteboul has thanked Nico Hulkenberg for all his work over the past two-and-a-half seasons, with the driver set to depart the team to be replaced by Esteban Ocon next year.

The German holds the unwanted record of starting the most races without claiming a podium spot in Formula 1, and he hasn’t really come closer to ending the barren run this campaign, as Renault have disappointed from the off.

Speculation gathered pace this week that he would lose his spot in the team, with Ocon lined up as his replacement.

Now, just a few days before the Belgian Grand Prix where he will compete for Renault, Hulkenberg’s departure at the end of the season has been announced.

"I wish to thank Nico for his phenomenal involvement and massive contribution to our progress over the past three seasons,” Abiteboul said.

BREAKING: Ocon in, Hulkenberg out at RenaultRead more

“When Nico decided to join us, the team was ninth. He brought us to fourth place last year, and was classified seventh in the drivers’ championship.

“The imminent end of his contract made this decision a difficult one as Nico has been a pillar of this progress.

“The first part of this season has been more challenging, but I know we can count on him and deliver together throughout the second half of the year."

Renault are currently sixth in the constructors’ championship, while Hulkenberg is 14th in the driver rankings.

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