Nico Hulkenberg embraces a monumental chapter in his Formula 1 career as he prepares to lead the Audi debut in 2026. The German veteran, who made a triumphant full-time return to F1 in 2023 with Haas, is now preparing to become the face of one of the world's most iconic automotive brands as it enters the sport.
Hulkenberg, the first driver confirmed for Audi's highly anticipated entry, expressed both his pride and excitement at the prospect of representing his homeland on such a prestigious stage.
A proud partnership with Audi
Audi, which announced 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 prestigious name:
“I am one of the first two pilots who [conduiront pour Audi]but of course, being German, there is an element of pride, and I am very happy about that. It’s pretty cool, it’s pretty big,” he shared.
The 2026 season marks a seismic shift in F1's regulations, creating what Hulkenberg called “a clean slate for everyone.” This new beginning 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 at Renault, many thought his time in the sport was over. But a string of substitute appearances in 2020 and 2022 with Racing Point and Aston Martin has reignited interest in the German driver.
Haas gave him the opportunity to return full-time in 2023, and Hulkenberg took that chance with some stellar performances. Throughout 2023 and 2024, he consistently outperformed teammate Kevin Magnussen, reaching Q3 in 19 races and proving his skills were as sharp as ever.
His return caught the attention of Audi, convincing the team that it had found not only a German driver to embody its brand, but also a seasoned professional capable of moving the team forward.
-Hulkenberg reflects on an unexpected turn
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 journey—a fun journey, a positive journey—but I don't think I expected or thought it was going to happen,” he said.
Hulkenberg credited his time away from the grid as a key factor in his return:
“The break, the three years away, was really good and refreshing for me personally. To come back and feel very happy where I am, what I'm doing, with the team and everything—I think that relates to performance on the track.”
The road ahead: Audi's debut in F1
Hulkenberg's preparation for Audi's 2026 debut begins with a transition year in 2025, where he will help Sauber refine its operations and build momentum. Audi's entry coincides with major regulatory changes in F1, giving the team—and Hulkenberg—a golden opportunity to hit the ground running.
With a multi-year contract in place, Hulkenberg is set to play a key role in building Audi's legacy in Formula 1. The German star is not only preparing for the challenge; he welcomes the chance to write a new chapter in F1 history.
