Perez disappointed with Hulkenberg's likely departure: "It would be a shame"

Nico Hulkenberg is set to leave Formula 1 after the current season. The German is currently without a deal after being ousted from his Renault seat in favour of Esteban Ocon. Fellow driver Sergio Perez believes it'll be a "shame" to see Hulkenberg leaves as he rues the path F1 is heading down with driver talent and results overlooked.

Ocon was forced to sit in the garage for the duration of the 2019 F1 season as Lance Stroll, the owner's son, was brought in to drive for Racing Point. With Valtteri Bottas upping his game in the Silver Arrow, Mercedes were forced to put Ocon in a seat elsewhere.

Perez partnered Hulkenberg in 59 Grands Prix for Force India between 2014 and 2016. During this time, the duo achieved positive results. Perez believes Hulkenberg has enough talent and good enough results to prove his worth in Formula 1.

"It would be a shame because it shows that talent or results do not count enough in the sport. There are so many other factors - political and many others - where drivers are not in control," Perez told Motorsport-total.com.

It's unclear whether Hulkenberg will certainly leave Formula 1. There's a small glimmer of hope in the Alfa Romeo garage, but Antonio Giovinazzi has impressed boss Vasseur in recent races. The German hasn't won an F1 race but has qualified on pole position once.