P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi will join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, but is keen to have both its drivers in place at Stake for 2025, with Nico Hulkenberg set to make the switch, RacingNews365 understands.
RacingNews365 was informed in late 2023 about Audi’s interest in bringing Nico Hulkenberg to the team, with a contract offered for 2024 at Stake team. Sources now indicate Hulkenberg is set to sign for Audi and become a Stake driver in 2025 before Audi’s arrival in ’26. Audi values Hulkenberg’s experience in steering teams, confirmed by engineers from his previous teams. Haas, where Hulkenberg currently drives, wanted to retain him for his feedback in developing the 2024 car, aiming to improve tyre management. Hulkenberg’s strong performance with three points finishes in the first five races of 2025 reflects his growth compared to the 2023 season. Audi’s CEO Andreas Seidl eyes a driver line-up with Hulkenberg and is also interested in Carlos Sainz, leveraging their technical expertise to construct and optimize the team. Audi awaits Sainz’s final decision on joining, as he weighs his options in the driver market, keeping an eye on a potential Red Bull seat if Verstappen moves to Mercedes in 2025. Subscribe to RacingNews365’s YouTube channel for more updates on Formula 1!
