Nico Hulkenberg Confirmed as Audi’s First Formula 1 Driver, Leaving Haas at End of 2024 Season
Nico Hulkenberg Confirmed as Audi’s First Formula 1 Driver
In a surprising turn of events, Nico Hulkenberg has been confirmed as Audi’s first Formula 1 driver after Haas announced that he will be leaving at the end of the 2024 season. The 36-year-old German has signed a multi-year contract that will see him drive for Sauber in 2025, before the team is taken over by Audi for the 2026 season and beyond.
Hulkenberg, who has impressed since returning to the grid with Haas in 2023 after three years without a permanent drive, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to represent Audi in Formula 1. He stated, “The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special. When a German manufacturer enters Formula One with such determination, it is a unique opportunity. To represent the factory team of such a car brand with a power unit made in Germany is a great honor for me.”
Sauber chief executive Andreas Seidl also shared his enthusiasm about welcoming Hulkenberg back to the team in 2025. He praised Hulkenberg’s speed, experience, and commitment to teamwork, highlighting the positive impact he will have on the development of the car and the team as a whole.
Hulkenberg’s journey in Formula 1 has been a rollercoaster ride, with stints at various teams including Williams, Force India, Renault, Racing Point, and Aston Martin. Despite facing challenges and uncertainties throughout his career, Hulkenberg’s talent and determination have earned him a well-deserved place at the forefront of Audi’s F1 project.
As Hulkenberg prepares to embark on this new chapter in his racing career, the announcement of his move has sparked speculation about the future of Sauber’s current drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. With Audi reportedly keen on signing outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz for the 2026 season, the F1 driver market is set for more exciting developments in the coming months.
Overall, Hulkenberg’s confirmation as Audi’s first Formula 1 driver marks a significant milestone in his career and sets the stage for an exciting new era in the world of motorsport. Fans can look forward to seeing Hulkenberg in action on the track as he represents Audi in the upcoming seasons.