Nico Hulkenberg has been competing in Formula 1 since 2010.
There have been numerous rumors circulating about the possible Audi driver lineup for 2026, as the German manufacturers seek to secure their duo before the end of this season. Both Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg have been strongly linked to the team.
According to Autosport, Haas announced on Friday morning that their German driver will be parting ways with them at the end of this season. Subsequently, Sauber, the team that will be taken over by Audi in 2026, revealed that Nico Hulkenberg will be their driver starting next year. The German has signed a multi-year contract.
The 36-year-old driver has long been on the shortlist for Audi F1 CEO candidates and now the team has successfully secured him. The combination of a German manufacturer with a German driver is generating significant excitement. The question that remains is who will be Hulkenberg’s partner.
Given the speculation surrounding a possible ultimatum for Carlos Sainz, it seems to be only a matter of time before Audi announces their second driver. Hulkenberg’s resurgence in Formula 1 is truly remarkable and fans are looking forward to seeing him shine from next year onwards.
After the announcement, Nico Hulkenberg shared his thoughts on his future with Audi. The German driver explained why signing with Audi for the upcoming years is especially significant for him.
Hulkenberg described the signing as a highly significant moment. At 36 years old, he seems ready to compete for podiums and victories with Audi. Furthermore, he mentioned that his 2025 season with Sauber will evoke memories of his previous tenure with the team in the mid-2010s. With all these factors in mind, exciting times are ahead for the extremely experienced German driver.