Whispers around Nico Hulkberg and Audi paint a picture of an F1 landscape in flux, especially given the current atmosphere of uncertainty surrounding Audi’s future in the sport.
The Volkswagen-owned giant, Audi, is at a crossroads before ever firing up Formula 1 engine – its commitment to diving into a works Formula 1 project in 2026 now shrouded in speculation. A report from Der Spiegel has added fuel to the fire, revealing a detailed reevaluation within the company following the departure of Markus Duesmann, the former CEO and a known F1 enthusiast. With rumors also pointing towards a shift in focus towards production cars and a stringent cost-cutting regime, the future seems more unpredictable than ever.
An Audi spokesperson, however, provides a semblance of stability amidst the chaos. “The Formula 1 entry is based on a board resolution. The project and the timetable remain unchanged.”
Nico Hulkenberg, with a wealth of experience under his belt but no victories, finds his name entangled in the rumors of a potential move to Sauber-Audi, a topic that has regained momentum this week. The speculation suggests a timeline, where Hulkenberg would fulfill his 2024 contract with Haas before making the transition in 2025 before Audi really fires up for 2026.
Engaging in a frank discussion with Sky Deutschland in Mexico, Hulkenberg doesn’t shy away from the topic. “There were discussions,” he admits, highlighting his strong rapport with Andreas Seidl from their time together in Porsche and Formula 1, “We get along well, that’s no secret.”
“I know Andi (Andreas) Seidl very well from his Porsche and Formula 1 days. That’s no secret,” Hulkenberg said.
Despite the discussions and evident mutual interest, a move to Sauber-Audi did not materialize. However, Hulkenberg remains open to the possibility, hinting at potential future negotiations as he embarks on his contract extension with Haas.
“I think it will be very interesting next year and that the cards will be reshuffled,” Hulkenberg shared. “A lot will happen in the driver carousel.”
As for the performance and the potential to express one’s capabilities on the track, Hulkenberg points out, “It always depends on how good the package that you have is – how well you can express yourself or not.”
The ongoing rumors and the shadow of VW-powered cost-cutting do cast a shadow of uncertainty, especially for those considering a future with Sauber-Audi. Hulkenberg, addressing the future of Audi in F1, shared, “When they finally get started in 2026, it’s still up in the air whether they will be a top team or not. They have to prove that and achieve it first.”
Concluding his thoughts, Hulkenberg reflects on his current standing and the ambiguity of the future, stating, “So there are still some question marks. I’m currently here (at Haas), I feel at home and everything else is up in the air.”
