Nico Hulkenberg has confirmed that he will be leaving Haas at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season to join Sauber in 2025, as the team prepares for its transition into the Audi works team. The German driver acknowledged that there will be “more pressure” on him to deliver results with the prestigious German marque compared to his current role at Haas.
Hulkenberg’s move to Sauber was officially announced in April, with the team signing him to a long-term contract. This move is seen as a key part of Sauber’s preparation for Audi’s entry into Formula 1 as a works team in 2026, under new technical regulations. Audi has already secured former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto to lead the project, adding to the weight of expectations surrounding the venture.
Reflecting on his impending move, Hulkenberg admitted the challenge ahead: “It is a big challenge, no question about that. Going to what will be Audi, a German manufacturer with a German driver, there will be a lot of attention and a lot of expectation – it’s not going to be easy.”
Despite the increased scrutiny that comes with driving for a major manufacturer like Audi, Hulkenberg is clear that his approach to racing won’t change. “My approach to my work isn’t changing. I’m going to go there with everything I have and try to contribute in and out of the car as much as I can. That’s what I love doing, and hopefully, collectively, we can make it a success.”
The move marks a significant career turnaround for Hulkenberg, who spent three years out of a full-time race seat from 2020 to 2022. His impressive performances with Haas since his return to F1 in 2023 have revived his career, making him one of the standout performers in a team that has steadily improved to seventh in the Constructors’ Championship.
However, Hulkenberg is fully aware that with greater opportunities come greater expectations. “If you don’t perform, the pressure is on. You’re more under the spotlight. It’s going to be a lot more PR work, a lot more demanding on this side. But it’s a big opportunity, and the ceiling is higher.”
At 37 years old when he joins Sauber/Audi, Hulkenberg will be among the oldest drivers on the grid. But the veteran insists age is not a concern. “I don’t feel old or like I’m close to my due date. I don’t think about that. I take it step by step, season by season. As long as I still have what it takes, that’s good, and I’ll carry on.”
Hulkenberg’s move to Sauber/Audi is set to be one of the most intriguing storylines in Formula 1 as the sport heads into a new era with the 2026 regulations. The question remains whether the seasoned driver can help deliver the success that Audi, and its fans, will undoubtedly demand.
Photo from Nico Hulkenberg Instagram
