P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How 12 years late, Hulkenberg is finally getting his shot at a ‘big’ F1 team
Nico Hulkenberg, after 12 years, is returning to the Sauber Formula 1 team in 2025, under changed circumstances for both him and the team amidst the shift from the V8 engine era. Hulkenberg sees this as a long-awaited opportunity in F1 that he has rightfully earned. The move from Haas to Sauber has been anticipated for a while, especially with Audi’s interest in having a German driver as part of their F1 entry. Audi’s presence in the 2025 driver market has stirred up interest with drivers like Carlos Sainz and prompted early signings, aligning with the team’s focus on preparing for the 2026 season. Hulkenberg’s career trajectory, from sampling IndyCar to securing a position with Audi, represents a remarkable turnaround and a shot at redemption he believed he had been denied in the past. His previous successes with Sauber and Force India, combined with Audi’s understanding of his capabilities, indicate a promising future ahead in F1 for Hulkenberg.