Nico Hulkenberg has rejected the notion that 2025 is a lost cause for Sauber, pointing to late-season progress in 2024 as evidence that a turnaround is “possible” for the team. With Sauber set to transition into Audi’s works Formula 1 entry next year, Hulkenberg is optimistic that the Hinwil-based squad can claw its way back into the midfield.
Encouragement from late-season improvements
Hulkenberg rejoined Sauber after a sole season with the team in 2013, signing a multi-year deal as it gears up for its Audi rebrand. Despite Sauber’s last-place finish in the 2024 Constructors’ Championship, a promising upgrade package debuted in Las Vegas provided a glimmer of hope. Zhou Guanyu ended the team’s points drought in Qatar, and Valtteri Bottas showcased improved qualifying pace in Abu Dhabi, securing ninth on the grid.
Reflecting on these improvements, Hulkenberg noted the team’s progress during the post-season test with the C44. “In the last three races, the car was clearly more competitive and closer to the field,” he told Auto Motor und Sport. “The foundation is not so bad. There’s still a lot to be done, but the direction is clear.”
Drawing parallels with Haas’ resurgence
Hulkenberg cited his experience with Haas’ recovery from 10th in the standings in 2022 to seventh in 2024 as proof that rapid improvement is achievable, even for backmarker teams. “The Haas example shows that it is possible even in a short time,” he said. “I also believe that Sauber has already taken the first step in the right direction with the upgrade from Las Vegas. That was a big correction.”
The German believes that building on this momentum will allow Sauber to mix it up with the midfield in 2025, laying a solid foundation for Audi’s entry as a full-fledged works team in 2026.
Looking ahead to Audi’s F1 arrival
Sauber’s transformation into the Audi works team coincides with sweeping F1 regulation changes in 2026. Audi will build its own engine, providing a clean slate for the team to establish itself as a contender. Hulkenberg, with 227 starts under his belt, is expected to lead the squad alongside rookie teammate Gabriel Bortoleto.
Comparing Audi’s entry to his previous stint with Renault, Hulkenberg highlighted the unique nature of this project. “Renault was different. They were already there once,” he explained. “Audi is, of course, a bigger brand. The Formula 1 stage is significantly bigger today than it was back then. We are getting a lot of reinforcements, as many capable people are joining the team.”
A challenge worth embracing
Hulkenberg’s optimism is buoyed by the arrival of fresh talent and the growing resources being funneled into the team. While 2025 may be a transitional year, the German driver believes that Sauber has the tools to emulate Haas’ resurgence and build momentum ahead of Audi’s highly anticipated entry.
“I am looking forward to the challenge and am curious to see what time will bring,” Hulkenberg said. “It’s about getting everything right, step by step. If we do, there’s no reason we can’t move forward.”
