Nico Hülkenberg will race for Audi’s F1 team starting 2025, after a year with Stake and Sauber. His multi-year commitment marks a significant shift for both him and the team.
It was expected, especially after the announcement of his departure from Haas: Nico Hülkenberg will join Stake next year, as he will be one of the two drivers for the debut of the Audi F1 project in 2026. The German will race under the colors of Stake and Sauber in 2025 before moving to the Audi banner the following year.
Hülkenberg has a multi-year contract, reportedly for three years. Audi was keen to sign a German driver for its entry into Formula 1 and thus chose ‘Hulk,’ who has made a strong comeback since last year with Haas.
Audi clearly states that the German driver’s experience of over 200 races was crucial in this decision. Alongside him, Carlos Sainz is the favorite to take the other seat, possibly joining Stake F1 as soon as 2025.
“We are very pleased to welcome Nico here in Hinwil from 2025 and to race with him in Formula 1. With his speed, experience, and commitment to teamwork, he will be a crucial part of our team’s transformation and will make a significant contribution to Audi starting in 2026,” said Andreas Seidl, CEO of Sauber and Audi F1.
“From the start, there was a great mutual interest in building something long-term together. Nico is a strong personality, and his input, both professionally and personally, will help us advance in both car development and team building.”
Seidl and Hülkenberg have previously worked together, as the CEO was the director of Porsche in the WEC when Nico did a stint with the brand, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2015. Moreover, Hülkenberg has already driven for Sauber in 2013, so he is familiar with Hinwil.
“I am returning to the team with which I worked in 2013 and I have fond memories of the team spirit in Switzerland,” said the driver. “The prospect of racing for Audi is something very special.”
“When a German manufacturer enters Formula 1 with such determination, it’s a unique opportunity. Representing the factory team of such a car brand with a power unit made in Germany is a great honor for me.”
Official: Hülkenberg Joins Audi F1 Team in 2025 Shift. Official: Hülkenberg Joins Audi F1 Team in 2025 Shift
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