Sauber, which will become Audi’s works team in 2026, has announced the signing of Nico Hulkenberg on a multi-year deal.
Sauber is in the process of being taken over by Audi ahead of the German giant’s first foray into Formula 1 when new power unit regulations are introduced in 2026.
Hulkenberg, 36, has been long tipped to be one of the team’s drivers, and on Friday Haas announced his exit after the 2024 season, before Sauber confirmed his recruitment from 2025.
It brings Hulkenberg back into the Sauber fold, after he raced for the team in 2013, and reunites him with Audi’s F1 project leader Andreas Seidl, who headed Porsche’s LMP1 team during Hulkenberg’s 2015 win at the event.
“The signing of Nico is the next milestone for Audi’s Formula 1 project,” said 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.”
Hulkenberg will consequently assist Sauber’s transition into Audi through 2025 and into 2026.
“The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special,” said Hulkenberg. “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.”
The team has not yet confirmed the identity of Hulkenberg’s team-mate for 2025 and beyond.
Audi has been courting outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz but he has not yet made a decision on his future amid prospective vacancies at Red Bull and Mercedes.
Sauber’s current drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, are not expected to remain with the team after 2024, with news of Hulkenberg’s signing confirming that at least one will be departing.
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