Formula 1 veteran Nico Hulkenberg is in high spirits as he begins his journey with Sauber, alongside new teammate Gabriel Bortoleto. Hulkenberg, who has a whopping 230 Grand Prix under his belt, is all praises for the Formula 2 champion, Bortoleto, whom he describes as “fast as hell.”
The duo forms a unique partnership at Sauber, combining Hulkenberg’s vast experience and Bortoleto’s fresh talent. Bortoleto’s stellar performance at Invicta Racing last year did not go unnoticed, prompting Sauber to snatch him from McLaren’s Driver Development Programme, bypassing other potential contenders.
When asked about his budding partnership with Bortoleto, Hulkenberg was effusive in his commendation. He expressed admiration for Bortoleto’s quick learning capacity and speed, eagerly anticipating their future collaboration.
In the initial phase of the racing season, the pair will be under the guidance of Mattia Binotto, the former Ferrari boss. Following the first two Grands Prix, Jonathan Wheatley, the former Red Bull Technical Director, will take over the stewardship.
Hulkenberg is making a comeback with Sauber this year, having previously worked with the team in the 2013 season, sandwiched between his stints at Force India. His return, however, sees significant changes in the team’s leadership. Mattia Binotto, the former Ferrari Team Principal and now Sauber’s Chief Technical Officer, will helm the team for the first two rounds before Jonathan Wheatley steps in.
Despite the changes, Hulkenberg appears to be comfortably settling into his role. He has been actively involved in the team’s operations since January, engaging in factory days and simulator days. While he remains uncertain about the team’s standing against its rivals, Hulkenberg is optimistic about the progress so far.
His positive outlook extends to his interactions with the team, including the engineers and Binotto. He likens his move to a new team to a new relationship, brimming with things to explore and discover. The novelty of the situation, he says, is what makes it an exciting and interesting phase.
As Sauber prepares for the 2025 campaign, Hulkenberg’s return and Bortoleto’s inclusion are expected to provide the much-needed impetus for the team’s transition into the works Audi project in 2026.
In conclusion, Hulkenberg’s anticipation of a challenge from his “fast as hell” teammate Bortoleto, coupled with his excitement about his second stint with Sauber, sets the stage for an electrifying Formula 1 season.
