Hulkenberg warns F1 grid: "Never count him out!"

Former F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg thinks his fellow countryman Sebastian Vettel could be in for a very strong season, with the German praising Vettel's ability to come back strong from periods of struggle.

Hulkenberg found himself without a drive for 2020 as Esteban Ocon took his place at Renault, with no other team making room for the one-time pole-sitter in their line-up.

The 32-year-old shared his views on the upcoming Formula 1 season, where he warns not to forget about a certain four-time world champion.

"Don't rule out Sebastian!" he told AFP. 

"He can always come back strong. With Charles Leclerc, he has a strong teammate who has become even more confident thanks to the contract extension."

It's not just Ferrari Hulkenberg has his faith in, however, as he also tips Aston Martin Red Bull Racing to be strong in the upcoming season.

"I have a good feeling, they can have taken a step forward and hopefully challenge Mercedes. Last year Max Verstappen secured third place behind Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas and ahead of the Ferraris."

As for his own future, Hulkenberg admitted it is still "completely open" as the Le Mans winner himself speaks of a "temporary break" from racing.