Nico Hulkenberg has left open the door to the 2014 season, intensifying rumours he could be paving a road to Ferrari.
Some have interpreted the German’s move from Force India to Sauber for next year as a sideways step, while others think Hulkenberg is laying down a path to his future with the small Ferrari-powered Swiss team.
Indeed, the 25-year-old was linked with Ferrari’s works team before Maranello decided to keep Felipe Massa in 2013, but the Brazilian - like Hulkenberg - has only been signed up for a single season.
"I cannot tell you where I’m going in 2014," Hulkenberg told Germany’s Auto Bild Motorsport. "Formula one is a fast-moving business."
He did admit: "In the long term I want to drive for podiums and race wins and become world champion.
"Which team it will be with is located in the stars," added Hulkenberg.