Nico Hulkenberg Joins Sauber as First Driver for Audi’s F1 Debut in 2026

Renowned Formula 1 racer Nico Hulkenberg is set to bid farewell to Haas after two seasons and join Sauber in 2025, marking the beginning of his tenure with Audi’s future works team. The German driver will be the first onboard as part of a multi-year deal ahead of the transition by Sauber into an all-Audi squad starting from 2026. Hulkenberg expressed excitement and gratitude in making this significant move, stating that he is thrilled to represent Audi during their debut season in F1 racing while also acknowledging its ambitious future objectives. While there have been whispers of such a prospect beforehand, it was eventually confirmed by both parties earlier last week (Friday). Notably, the signing decision can potentially alter aspects surrounding the remaining Formula 1 driver line-up for next year and beyond as other drivers like Valtteri Bottas or Zhou Guanyu could require fresh opportunities following their previous employers’ imminent switches to different vehicle models. Nonetheless, this announcement also triggers additional speculations on possible moves from present squads, such as Carlos Sainz Jr., who has been previously linked with Audi. As of now, it remains uncertain whether Bottas or Zhou will be the first driver out in 2025 due to Sauber’s new partnership deal with Audi. However, if both are unable to secure a place within their current teams following these significant changes, they might have to search for fresh alternatives elsewhere as early as next year (assuming Haas doesn’t select Ollie Bearman over Hulkenberg). Although the recent driver market decision provides more answers than it does new queries regarding Sauber and Audi, several additional issues still remain unresolved.