Audi accelerates into Formula 1 with Nico Hülkenberg at the wheel

German racer Nico Hülkenberg has inked a multi-year contract with Sauber, positioning him as the first official driver for Audi. He will kick off his journey with Sauber next year, transitioning to the Audi banner in 2026 when the team undergoes its rebranding.

Currently, he is competing with the American team Haas, and interestingly, this isn't his first stint with Sauber, having driven for them in the 2013 season.

Andreas Seidl, the managing director of what will be the Audi F1 factory team, expressed his enthusiasm about Hülkenberg's signing: "Right from the start, there was great mutual interest in tackling a project of this uniqueness together. Nico is a strong personality, his determination and desire on a professional and personal level will help us to make progress both in the development of the car and in building up the team."

Nico Hülkenberg shared his excitement about the opportunity: "The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special. When a German manufacturer enters Formula 1 with such determination, it’s a unique opportunity. To represent the factory team of such a car brand with a power unit made in Germany is a great honor for me."