Nico Hülkenberg to Drive for Audi in Formula 1 Starting 2026

Nico Hülkenberg to Drive for Audi in Formula 1 Starting 2026

In a major announcement, Audi revealed that Formula 1 driver Nico Hülkenberg will be joining the Sauber racing team in 2025, which will transition into the Audi works team the following year. The German driver has signed a contract for several years, marking a significant move for both Hülkenberg and Audi.

Hülkenberg expressed his excitement about the opportunity to compete for Audi, stating, “When a German manufacturer enters Formula 1 with such determination, then it is a unique opportunity.” With over 200 Formula 1 races under his belt, Hülkenberg’s experience will be invaluable in the transformation of the team and Audi’s F1 project.

Before making the switch to Audi, Hülkenberg, currently 36 years old, aims to finish his tenure with Haas, where his contract is set to expire at the end of the season. The German driver took over from Mick Schumacher at Haas in 2022 and has since been focused on delivering strong performances on the track.

Sauber, currently struggling in the constructors’ championship without any points, will benefit from Hülkenberg’s expertise as they prepare to become the Audi works team. The Finn Valtteri Bottas and Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu are currently driving for Sauber, but the addition of Hülkenberg is expected to bolster the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons.

As Hülkenberg looks forward to his new role with Audi, he remains committed to contributing to the development of the team’s new car before hitting the track in 2026. With his sights set on success, Hülkenberg’s journey with Audi promises to be an exciting chapter in his Formula 1 career.