Hulkenberg gives his perspective on the Audi “earthquake” as Audi’s much-anticipated entry into Formula One, still a year and a half away, and the Sauber team is already experiencing significant upheaval. The departure of key figures Andreas Seidl and Oliver Hoffmann and the arrival of Mattia Binotto signal a major shift within the team.
The recent recruitment of Jonathan Wheatley also suggests that the team is already laying the foundations for a successful future in the sport. Alongside these changes, however, there’s growing speculation that a young German driver of note, Mick Schumacher, could be the surprise choice to partner Nico Hulkenberg when Audi makes its debut in 2025.
Despite the preparations, one crucial element remains unresolved: the identity of the second driver who will line up alongside Hulkenberg. It was confirmed last week that Carlos Sainz will not be filling that role, having signed a contract with Williams instead. As it stands, Hulkenberg is the only confirmed driver for Audi’s inaugural season in the premier class.
Hulkenberg’s confidence in the Audi project
Despite the whirlwind of changes surrounding the team, Hulkenberg remains confident in his decision to join Audi. The German driver has been kept abreast of the recent management changes and received a personal phone call from Audi CEO Gernot Dollner shortly before the public announcement was made ahead of the Spa race.
Speaking to motorsport.com, Hulkenberg revealed that the call from Dollner, which lasted around ten minutes, was unexpected but appreciated.
“I don’t know how important it was, but of course it’s nice because it shows respect and how serious he and the brand are about not taking this lightly,” said Hulkenberg, adding that it was reassuring to know that Audi’s management is paying close attention to developments within the team.
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The personal touch of the Audi CEO
During the call, Dollner gave Hulkenberg an explanation of the recent changes, summarising the situation without going into specific details. While Hulkenberg chose not to reveal the full content of the conversation, he did acknowledge the significant challenge that lies ahead with the Audi project.
“It’s a big challenge, there’s no doubt about that. Going to Audi, a German manufacturer, as a German driver, there will be a lot of attention and high expectations. So it certainly won’t be easy,” admitted Hulkenberg.
However, he remains determined to give it his all: “My approach and definition of work will not change. I will go there with everything I have and try to contribute as much as I can in and out of the car. Because that’s what I love and hopefully together we can make it a success story.”
A new chapter for Hulkenberg
Despite the unique opportunity to be a German driver for a German manufacturer, Hulkenberg’s decision to join Audi was not based solely on national pride. The 36-year-old cited the bigger picture at Audi as a more significant factor in his decision.
“The fact that everything at Audi has a larger framework is more important: ‘I like this expression: Yes, the framework is bigger – for better or for worse’,” explained Hulkenberg.
He acknowledges that with greater opportunities come greater challenges, including increased pressure and more demanding public relations obligations. However, he sees these challenges as part of the greater opportunity that Audi represents, noting that the potential rewards are greater than what he could achieve with his current team, Haas.
The transition from Haas to Audi
Hulkenberg’s impending departure from Haas, where he has enjoyed a career renaissance over the past two years, is a bittersweet one.
“It always feels bitter … most of the time it feels bittersweet when you leave a team because you build relationships, in most cases you enjoy working with the people,” he reflected. Nevertheless, Hulkenberg is determined to move on, driven by a strategic vision for his future in the sport.
“But yes, it’s more about the big picture, about the future. I changed for a reason, there is a strategy and a reason behind it. That’s why it’s the way it is now,” he explained.
As Hulkenberg looks forward to joining Audi, he hopes to be part of a successful journey that will see the four rings achieve great success in Formula One. The next question is, who will fill the vacant seat?
Who will be driving alongside Nico Hulkenberg from 2025?
While Nico Hulkenberg’s position in the Audi Formula One team for 2025 is secure, the identity of his team-mate remains one of the most intriguing unanswered questions as the team prepares for its debut.
The departure of Carlos Sainz from consideration has left a significant void, and speculation surrounding the potential candidates to fill the role has intensified.
Schumacher’s name mentioned ‘more often’ again
One name that has resurfaced in the discussions is that of Mick Schumacher. The possibility of Sauber/Audi fielding an all-German driver line-up in 2025 is looking increasingly plausible.
Schumacher, the son of the legendary Michael Schumacher, has been the subject of much speculation, with recent reports suggesting that his name is being mentioned “more often” in connection with the second Audi cockpit.
It is well known that Sauber/Audi had originally planned to start the new era of Formula One with Hulkenberg and Sainz as their drivers. However, following Sainz’s decision to join Williams, the team is now exploring other options. Although several drivers are being considered, no one has emerged as the clear frontrunner, which could work in Schumacher’s favour.
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Schumacher just one of many Audi candidates
Despite the renewed interest in Schumacher, he is far from the only candidate being considered for the role. The list of potential teammates for Hulkenberg includes experienced drivers such as Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou, as well as a number of Red Bull drivers.
Next season could see significant changes within the Red Bull camp, potentially freeing up drivers such as Daniel Ricciardo or Sergio Pérez, both of whom could be viable options for Audi.
There is also speculation surrounding Alex Palou, an outstanding driver in the IndyCar series. The 27-year-old Spaniard has made a name for himself by securing the championship titles in 2021 and 2023, and is currently leading the standings for the 2024 season. Palou’s impressive performances have led to calls for him to be given a chance in Formula 1, making him another strong contender for the Audi seat.
The road ahead
As the Sauber team continues to evolve in preparation for Audi’s entry into Formula One, Hulkenberg remains a key figure in the unfolding story. His belief in the project, reinforced by the support of Audi’s leadership, underlines his commitment to making the most of this opportunity.
While the future remains uncertain, Hulkenberg’s focus and determination suggest that he is ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead, with the ultimate goal of helping Audi reach the pinnacle of motorsport success.
Whoever succeeds Hulkenberg on the grid in 2025 will not only have to match his experience and skill, but also complement the ambitious goals Audi has set for its Formula One project. The decision will be crucial as it will shape the dynamics of the team and influence its performance as it seeks to establish itself as a competitive force in the sport. The coming months will be critical as Audi makes its choice, and the motorsport world waits with bated breath to see who will fill this highly coveted role.
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With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
Audi should give the seat to Mick. He is a great driver and should not be judged by his stint at HAAS. No driver under the thumb of Gunther ever shown their true talents. HAAS is performing better without him. Mick has shown he has what it takes before he entered F1 and after. An all German outfit for Audi can be a positive one. Give the seat to MS.
Never say never, but unlikely & if anything, at best a last-resort choice or thereabouts.
Yes, Perez & Ricciardo could be viable options, depending on Red Bull situation, but neither would necessarily be an improvement on Bottas & the same even more so with Mick.
I think Mick Schumacher would be perfect partner for the Hulk. I also think Audi are going to surprise a lot of people like they did at Le mans.
I hope Mick gets that opportunity, that young chap deserves it , as said above by some one since that bully and big mouth and Netflix celebrity BS Steiner left has is performing better.