Hulkenberg prepared for Spa showdown: 'Exciting Thursday ahead!'

Nico Hulkenberg has teased an “exciting Thursday ahead” as he took to Instagram to respond to the rumours that Esteban Ocon has already been lined up to replace him at Renault.

The German’s current contract with the French team runs out at the end of the current campaign, and with both he and Daniel Ricciardo failing to impress in 2019, there is increasing speculation that he could be moved on.

With Mercedes seemingly moving more towards Valtteri Bottas again for 2020, that leaves reserve driver Ocon needing a seat somewhere else, with Haas mentioned as a potential destination as well as Renault.

This week, French magazine Auto Hebdo ran a story claiming that Ocon had indeed been approached to drive for Renault in place of Hulkenberg, and even mocked up a picture of the Frenchman in Renault gear for their front cover.

Hulkenberg, aware he will have to face a plethora of questions about the situation, posted a cryptic message on his Instagram story.

According to reports in France, Renault are keen to see Hulkenberg secure another F1 seat before confirming Ocon's signing.

The German will also likely face questions about potential destinations, with a switch to Haas to replace Romain Grosjean widely tipped.

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