Hülkenberg stands by his Audi switch, unfazed by Haas F1’s progress, believing in long-term gains despite short-term risks.
Nico Hülkenberg has stated he has no regrets over his decision to leave the evolving Haas F1 team at the end of the season.
Following the Abu Dhabi finale, the 37-year-old German will join Sauber from 2025 onwards, in preparation for the team’s full transition to Audi F1 in 2026.
However, Hülkenberg made the decision to depart before Haas F1’s significant progress this year under the new leadership of Ayao Komatsu became evident.
“For the first time in our team’s history, we’ve managed to improve consistently,” said Komatsu.
“We are enhancing the car at every stage because we remain open to all ideas and are self-critical.”
Just a few days ago, Haas also announced a new technical and operational alliance with Toyota.
While Haas is on the rise and Sauber currently sits at the bottom of the 2024 standings without a point to their name, there may be speculation that Hülkenberg could regret his choice.
“I don’t speculate about that. For me, it’s not an issue. Everything is set and going well. Like Haas, Sauber just needs a good winter, and next year things should be different. The cards will be reshuffled. I have no doubts. I’m fully committed,” Hülkenberg said.
Hülkenberg, however, acknowledges that Haas has made remarkable progress this year.
“We’ve introduced four or five updates now, and each time something has happened. Not always 100% positive or perfect, but at least something changes and moves forward. Last year, by comparison, was really flat. The processes are now better, smoother, and more efficient.”
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher agrees with his fellow German, stating that Hülkenberg made the right choice by opting for Audi over Haas for his future.
“He’s looking ahead despite his age. Haas will remain a smaller team for the time being, and it may take some time before Toyota fully integrates. By then, he’ll likely be retired.”
Schumacher, a former Toyota works driver, admits that the new alliance with Haas will bear fruit, but he expresses concern over the American team’s ability to adapt to the all-new regulations for 2026.
“They will need to start from scratch again, and that’s when this compact team will show its limitations. That’s why Hülkenberg is right to go to Audi. Furthermore, and I mean no offence to team owner Gene Haas, he’s not a young man anymore.”
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No Regrets: Hülkenberg Backs Decision to Leave Haas F1 No Regrets: Hülkenberg Backs Decision to Leave Haas F1
