Nico Hulkenberg Joins Audi as First F1 Driver, Departing Haas for Sauber

Nico Hulkenberg has been announced as Audi inaugural Formula 1 driver departing from Haas at the end of the 2024 season. He has signed a multi-year contract with Sauber starting from 2025 coinciding with Audi takeover of the team in 2026. This move confirms that either Valtteri Bottas or Zhou Guanyu will not drive for Sauber in 2025.

Hulkenberg expressed his excitement about representing Audi in Formula 1 emphasizing the significance of a German manufacturer entering the sport. Sauber CEO Andreas Seidl welcomed Hulkenberg back highlighting his speed, experience and teamwork as crucial for the team’s development.

Hulkenberg journey includes stints with various F1 teams, notably Renault, Racing Point and Aston Martin. His departure from Haas opens up a seat potentially for young talent Oliver Bearman. The driver market for the 2025 season remains open with speculation surrounding other drivers’ futures.