P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lewis Hamilton BLOCKED F1 star’s move to Mercedes
Former Mercedes F1 boss Ross Brawn recently disclosed that the team nearly signed Nico Hulkenberg in 2012 as a replacement for retiring Michael Schumacher. Hulkenberg, then racing for Force India, had garnered attention for his performances, including a pole position at the 2010 Brazilian Grand Prix. Mercedes, as a German manufacturer, saw potential in Hulkenberg, which would have retained the all-German driver lineup alongside Nico Rosberg. However, the opportunity to sign Lewis Hamilton emerged, ultimately leading to Hamilton’s successful tenure at Mercedes. Brawn acknowledged Hulkenberg’s professionalism during the negotiations and expressed regret at not being able to work with him. Hulkenberg’s career took a different trajectory, but he recently made headlines by securing his first podium at the 2025 Silverstone Grand Prix after a record-breaking stint without one. Now, at 38, Hulkenberg embarks on an exciting journey with Audi, aiming to contribute to their quest for a world championship by 2030.
