Heidfeld: "Red Bull is not looking for someone who can beat Verstappen"

Who will replace Alexander Albon if his contract with Red Bull Racing is not extended? Pierre Gasly could be an option but Red Bull may have to look outside of their own talent pool. Former F1 star Nick Heidfeld says that Nico Hulkenberg would be the perfect fit for Red Bull's second seat.

"If you look at the facts and the times, it is clear that Albon is too far away. A top team like Red Bull simply cannot afford to do that in the long term," Heidfeld explains in his column at the German Sky Sports. The former F1 driver would also know who should partner Verstappen.

"Nico Hulkenberg would be the perfect driver to partner Verstappen. Red Bull is not looking for someone who can beat Verstappen. Sergio Perez or Hulkenberg would be a clear number two. They are expected to perform constantly." Heidfeld hopes that Red Bull also understands this and that Hulkenberg can take the seat in 2021.

"I have 100% confidence in Nico. Of course it would be great if he can fight Max, but I don't think there are many drivers who can fight him at the moment. Nico fits all Red Bull's requirements. With other teams he would be number one, but with Red Bull he is the perfect number two," Heidfeld concludes.