Nico Hulkenberg to join Sauber for 2025 season before Audi transformation

Nico Hulkenberg, the seasoned German driver, is set to make a significant move in his Formula 1 career as he joins the Sauber team for the 2025 season ahead of their transition into the factory Audi team in 2026.

The 36-year-old driver will be the first to sign with Audi as they gear up for their debut season in Formula 1, with their sights also set on securing Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz. Andreas Seidl, the chief executive officer of Sauber and the Audi F1 project, expressed his confidence in Hulkenberg, stating, “With his speed, experience, and commitment to teamwork, Nico will be an important part of the transformation of our team.”

Hulkenberg, who previously worked with Seidl during his Le Mans victory with Porsche in 2015, shared his excitement about the opportunity to race for Audi, saying, “The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special. When a German manufacturer enters F1 with such determination, it is a unique opportunity.”

With Hulkenberg’s move to Sauber, a vacancy has opened up at Haas, where he currently drives alongside Kevin Magnussen. One of the leading candidates for the seat at Haas in 2025 is British driver Oliver Bearman, a member of the Ferrari driver academy who impressed during his substitute appearance for Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Hulkenberg, who made his F1 debut in 2010 and has raced for several teams including Williams, Force India, Sauber, and Renault, is looking forward to this new chapter in his career with Audi. His wealth of experience and talent will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the team as they prepare to make their mark in the world of Formula 1.