Renault team boss Cyril Abiteboul says it was a “difficult decision” for the outfit not to renew Nico Hulkenberg’s contract for 2020, in the wake of its recruitment of Esteban Ocon.
Hulkenberg joined Renault in 2017 on a three-year deal following prior spells at Williams, Sauber and Force India.
Hulkenberg led Renault’s charge in 2017 and 2018 but this season has largely trailed new team-mate Daniel Ricciardo, amid the outfit’s year-on-year regression.
On Thursday it was confirmed that Ocon will join Renault on a two-year deal, alongside Ricciardo, thus leaving Hulkenberg without a seat.
Hulkenberg is nonetheless a strong candidate to link up with Haas, in place of out-of-contract Romain Grosjean.
“I wish to thank Nico for his phenomenal involvement and massive contribution to our progress over the past three seasons,” said Abiteboul.
“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."
Hulkenberg will address the media at Spa-Francorchamps later on Thursday.
