Nico Hulkenberg was announced as the first driver signed for the Audi Formula 1 team, which will be launched soon. Audi, which will take over Sauber and develop its own F1 engine, plans to enter as a manufacturer in 2026. However, they are eager to have their own drivers as early as next year, potentially replacing current Sauber drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. While Audi had been pursuing Carlos Sainz, they cannot guarantee his signing until he knows if there will be available seats in top teams in 2025. As a result, Audi secured Hulkenberg, who was also targeted by other teams like Williams and Alpine.
Hulkenberg had already been approached by Sauber CEO Andreas Seidl, who will lead the Audi F1 team in 2026, for the 2024 season. However, Hulkenberg’s contract with Haas prevented the move. With no obstacles for 2025, Sauber/Audi acted quickly to secure Hulkenberg, knowing he was also drawing interest from other teams. Haas announced Hulkenberg’s departure at the end of 2024 and it was soon confirmed that he had signed a multi-year contract with Audi starting in 2025. He will play a key role in the development of Audi’s first F1 car and will return to a team he previously competed for in 2013.
This move marks Hulkenberg’s return to a factory team since being released by Renault at the end of 2019. Despite being without a fixed spot in F1 for three seasons, Hulkenberg showcased his talent with impressive performances as a substitute at Racing Point/Aston Martin before returning to the track with Haas in 2023. In 2024, he continued to demonstrate his speed and racing ability in a more competitive Haas car. However, Haas could not compete with Audi’s resources and long-term prospects, making Hulkenberg’s move to Audi inevitable.
When Hulkenberg left the paddock after the 2019 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he wasn’t sure if he would return to Formula 1. The idea of becoming one of the most sought-after free agents for the 2025 season and joining a factory project seemed like a dream. However, that’s exactly where he finds himself now.
Undoubtedly, Haas would like to keep Hulkenberg, considering he has fulfilled his role perfectly. Despite facing criticism for replacing Mick Schumacher with the more experienced Hulkenberg in 2023, former team boss Guenther Steiner made a calculated decision. Hulkenberg brought speed, experience, and probably came at an affordable price, as Haas was the only team interested in his services.
It was widely known that the Audi/Sauber team was interested in Hulkenberg and even considered hiring him for 2024 when Zhou Guanyu’s future was uncertain. However, Hulkenberg’s existing contract with Haas prevented the move. Nevertheless, Audi’s genuine interest in Hulkenberg persisted, even as they await their main target, Carlos Sainz.
Hulkenberg’s performances in the more competitive Haas car in 2024, where he scored his 101st point in F1 with a 10th place in China, demonstrated his ability to effectively contribute to a midfield team. As points are crucial for the financial success of teams, Hulkenberg’s consistent performance makes him a reliable but perhaps underestimated asset.
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Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo surprised everyone with a breathtaking performance in the last game of the season. With his incredible dribbles and spectacular goals, he once again showed why he is considered one of the best players in the world. The fans were ecstatic with his performance and did not spare praise for the superstar.
In addition, Ronaldo also made a point of thanking his teammates for their support and dedication throughout the season. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and the unity of all to achieve success.
With this victory, Ronaldo’s team secured a spot in the next phase of the championship and is closer to winning the desired title. The fans are confident that the star will continue to shine in the upcoming games and lead the team to victory.
After the game, Ronaldo was surrounded by fans and journalists seeking an exclusive interview. The player, always friendly and attentive, gave a few words to the reporters present. He expressed his gratitude for the support of the fans and promised to continue giving his best on the field.
The next match of Ronaldo’s team promises to be exciting, and fans can’t wait to see the star in action again. With his undeniable talent and tireless determination, Cristiano Ronaldo continues to impress everyone with his high-level football.
Don’t miss the next chapters of this success story and follow closely the steps of this great player. Ronaldo is ready for more challenges and promises to surprise everyone with his skill and passion for the sport. Stay tuned and don’t miss any moment of this incredible journey!
