Germany - As he prepares for 2017, Nico Hulkenberg insists he is content.
That is despite the fact that, had he still been on the driver market for 2017, he might now be the sure favourite to replace Nico Rosberg at Mercedes.
No regrets
Hulkenberg told Bild am Sonntag newspaper: "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."
The 29-year-old, of course, was only joking, insisting he is happy to be switching from Force India to the Renault works team for 2017.
READ: Hulkenberg targets Renault wins in 2017
He said: "My goal was to drive for a manufacturer. That's what I've achieved with Renault. We both have unfulfilled goals."
Indeed, Hulkenberg is quietly known as one of the best drivers in Formula 1, but with a much lower level of media coverage than countrymen Rosberg or Sebastian Vettel.
The Hulk said: "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."
Monetary worth
Hulkenberg is also being well rewarded by Renault for the next period, with a new contract reportedly worth $20-million.
Hulkenberg insisted: "You said the number, not me. 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."
READ: Wheels24 staff applies for Rosberg's vacant Mercedes seat
In that way, Hulkenberg insists he is "down to earth".
Hulk added: "With (German TV presenter) Kai Ebel it's a running gag. He always says 'Down to earth but living in Monaco!' No, I'm fairly typically German: disciplined, punctual, ordered, reliable. Like many millions of Germans, but with an exotic job."