Hulkenberg signed to race Williams in 2010
Germany's Sport Bild said the information was admitted directly by Willi Weber, the 22-year-old's famous manager.
Weber, who also handled the ultra-successful career of Michael Schumacher and negotiated many of the same sponsors to also back Hulkenberg, was also quoted by the publication as saying the outcome of the 'crash-gate' saga was good news for Williams.
"It is good news for formula one and for Williams that Renault is continuing," said Weber, referring to the declaration this week by Renault lawyer Ali Malek QC that despite giving the matter "serious consideration", Renault's parent company has decided to stay in F1.
"The engine question for Williams to date was not clarified," Weber continued. "Now there will be talks with Renault."
Nico Hulkenberg |
09/18/09 (GMM) Nico Hulkenberg will definitely make his formula one debut with the Williams team in 2010, the German newspaper Bild-Zeitung reports.
The newspaper said Sir Frank Williams has taken up an option on the 22-year-old newly-crowned GP2 champion's existing contract, which this year saw him act as the British team's reserve and test driver.
"I cannot confirm that," Hulkenberg's manager Willi Weber said. "But I will be pleased if that is what happens."
Bild said Hulkenberg has been signed to replace his German compatriot Nico Rosberg.