P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Nico Hulkenberg has been confirmed as an Audi driver for 2026 following a season-long build-up with Stake in 2025.
Nico Hulkenberg is determined to give his all for Haas this season despite knowing he will leave the F1 team at the end of the year. He has been announced as one of Audi’s drivers for their Formula 1 debut in 2026 after a year-long preparation with Stake next year. Hulkenberg, aged 36, signed a multi-year contract with Audi, potentially extending his F1 career into his 40s. Returning to a team he raced with in 2013, Hulkenberg expressed his excitement to represent Audi in F1’s future. He views this as a challenging but rewarding opportunity and appreciates the trust shown by the team. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu praised Hulkenberg’s contributions and looks forward to their continued collaboration throughout the rest of the 2024 season.