Nico Hülkenberg is Audi's first signing for its new adventure in Formula 1, which will begin in 2026. The German driver, who has signed a multi-year contract, will spend a transition year at Sauber, in 2025, before the German brand disembarks in the 'Great Circus'.
The 36-year-old, who has raced more than 200 Grand Prix, is excited about this new step in his career: "I am returning to the team I worked with in 2013 and I have good memories of the strong team spirit in Switzerland. The perspective of competing for Audi is something very special." Likewise, Hülkenberg did not think twice, as his decision was clear: "When a German manufacturer enters F1 with so much determination, it is a unique opportunity. Representing the factory team of a car brand with an engine manufactured in "Germany is a great honor for me."
At Sauber, and later at Audi, he will reunite with Andreas Seidl, CEO of the team and with whom he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2015. The CEO has announced that Hülkenberg "will be an important part of the transformation of our team and of Audi's F1 project.
The German driver returned to Formula 1 in 2023 with Haas, the team with which he will finish the season. The director of the American brand, Ayao Komatsu, has thanked Hülkenberg for his role in this two-year stage: "I would like to thank Nico. He has been a great team man and someone with whom we really enjoyed working. His experience and "His comments have proven to be very valuable to us. There are many races ahead, so we hope to continue benefiting from his contributions for the rest of the season," said the Japanese.
At Audi there is still a free vacancy, as the German brand wants to renew its entire staff when it arrives in Formula 1. One of the names that sounds the loudest is that of Carlos Sainz, who wants to decide his future quickly, but is considering different options. options.
For his part, the seat left free by the German in Haas will, barring an unexpected turn of events, go to Oliver Bearman, the driver who replaced Sainz in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. At Ferrari, the team that made the first move for 2025 with the signing of Hamilton, they want the Briton to cut his teeth and are looking for an intermediate step between Formula 2 and the Italian team.
