Audi Motorsport has announced the signing of Nico Hulkenberg as a factory driver from F1 2026, as he will join Sauber from 2025 itself.
Having announced a departure from Haas at the end of 2024 F1 season, Hulkenberg has now been confirmed to be a factory driver of Audi from 2026 onward. Before that, he will race for Sauber in 2025 as he returns to the Swiss outfit’s fold since 2013.
Hulkenberg was hotly rumoured to be the first signing of Audi in recent times. The German manufacturer wanted an experienced hand behind the wheels. It is a multi-year contract – although it is unclear if it goes beyond the 2026 F1 season.
It is unclear who Hulkenberg will replace from Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou for 2025, with both the drivers out of contract. It is also to be seen if either are retained or they go for an all-new line-up, with speculations of Carlos Sainz being strong as well.
“The signing of Nico is the next milestone for Audi’s Formula 1 project,” said Andreas Seidl. “With his speed, his experience and his dedicated teamwork, he will make an important contribution to Audi’s entry in 2026 as early as next year.
“Right from the start, there was great mutual interest in tackling a project of this uniqueness together. Nico is a strong personality, his determination and desire on a professional and personal level will help us to make progress both in the development of the car and in building up the team.”
At the same time, Hulkenberg added: “I’m returning to the team I worked with back in 2013 and have fond memories of the strong team spirit in Switzerland. The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special. When a German manufacturer enters Formula 1 with such determination, it’s 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.”
An additional side note from Audi stated: “The appointment of Nico Hulkenberg follows the plan announced in March to take over Sauber completely and the appointment of Oliver Hoffmann as General Representative of the Board of Management of Audi for the Formula 1 commitment.
“In this role, Hoffmann also chairs the boards of directors of all Sauber companies and the shareholders’ meeting of Audi Formula Racing GmbH, which is responsible for the development of the power unit at the Neuburg site.”
Here’s the departure news of Nico Hulkenberg
Here’s last from Audi on Sauber takeover
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