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Nico Hulkenberg’s Audi adventure: A pride-filled return to the F1 spotlight

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
January 20, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Hulkenberg Stuns in Abu Dhabi: Qualifies Fourth Ahead of Verstappen

Formula One F1 - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - December 6, 2024 Haas' Nico Hulkenberg arrives ahead of practice REUTERS/Jakub Porzycki

Nico Hulkenberg is embracing a momentous chapter in his Formula 1 career as he prepares to lead Audi’s 2026 debut. The German veteran, who made a triumphant full-time return to F1 in 2023 with Haas, is now gearing up to become the face of one of the automotive world’s most iconic brands as they enter the sport.

Hulkenberg, the first driver confirmed for Audi’s highly anticipated entry, expressed both pride and excitement about the opportunity to represent his homeland on such a prestigious stage.


A proud partnership with Audi

Audi, which announced its plans to acquire and rebrand the Sauber team in 2022, sees Hulkenberg as a cornerstone of its F1 project. Reflecting on the announcement, Hulkenberg spoke about the pride he feels in joining such a storied name:

“I’m one of the two first drivers that will [drive for Audi], but of course, being German, there is an element of pride, and I’m very happy about it. It’s pretty cool, it’s pretty big,” he shared.

The 2026 season marks a seismic shift in F1 regulations, creating what Hulkenberg called “a white piece of paper for everyone.” This fresh start presents a unique opportunity for Audi—and its drivers—to make a significant impact.


A career comeback for the ages

Hulkenberg’s journey to Audi is nothing short of extraordinary. After leaving F1 in 2019 following a stint with Renault, many believed his time in the sport was over. But a series of substitute appearances in 2020 and 2022 with Racing Point and Aston Martin reignited interest in the German driver.

Haas gave him the chance to return full-time in 2023, and Hulkenberg seized the opportunity with stellar performances. Across 2023 and 2024, he consistently outpaced teammate Kevin Magnussen, reaching Q3 in 19 races and proving his skills were as sharp as ever.

His resurgence caught Audi’s attention, convincing the team that they had found not only a German driver to embody their brand but also a seasoned professional capable of driving the team forward.


Hulkenberg reflects on an unexpected twist

Reflecting on the trajectory of his career, Hulkenberg acknowledged that this opportunity with Audi was far from expected:

“Probably not. It’s been a bit of a ride—a fun one, a positive one—but I don’t think I would have expected or thought that this was going to happen,” he said.

Hulkenberg credited his time away from the grid as a key factor in his resurgence:

“The break, the three years out, kind of really good and refreshing for me personally. Coming back and feeling very happy in where I am, what I do, with the team and everything—I think that relates to on-track performance.”


The road ahead: Audi’s F1 debut

Hulkenberg’s preparation for Audi’s 2026 debut begins with a transitional year in 2025, where he’ll help Sauber refine its operations and build momentum. Audi’s entry coincides with sweeping F1 regulation changes, offering the team—and Hulkenberg—a golden opportunity to hit the ground running.

With a multi-year deal in place, Hulkenberg is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Audi’s legacy in Formula 1. The German star is not just preparing for the challenge; he’s relishing the chance to write a new chapter in F1 history.

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