Hulkenberg’s journey with Sauber and Audi in F1
LONDON: German racing driver Nico Hulkenberg has secured a significant move in his Formula One career, announcing his transition from Haas to Sauber for the upcoming season, with plans to join the Audi works Formula One team in 2026. The multi-year contract marks a pivotal moment for the 36-year-old driver, who expressed his excitement at the prospect of representing a German manufacturer in the pinnacle of motorsport.
Having previously raced for Sauber in 2013, Hulkenberg sees the opportunity to join the Audi factory team as a unique honor. He emphasized the significance of a German manufacturer entering Formula One with such determination, underscoring the prestige of representing a car brand with a German-made power unit.
Sauber’s transformation into the Audi factory team in 2026 adds another layer of anticipation to Hulkenberg’s journey. Andreas Seidl, CEO of Sauber Motorsport and future Audi team boss, praised Hulkenberg as an integral part of the team’s evolution and the broader Audi F1 project.
Hulkenberg’s track record speaks for itself, with notable achievements such as winning the Le Mans 24 Hours with Porsche in 2015 under Seidl’s leadership. Despite a three-year hiatus from regular driving, Hulkenberg made a triumphant return to Formula One in 2023, showcasing his enduring skill and determination.
