P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi signing up veteran Nico Hulkenberg will have a big impact on the 2025 Formula 1 silly season – primarily in the back half of the grid
Audi signing veteran Nico Hulkenberg will heavily impact the 2025 Formula 1 season, especially for teams in the back half of the grid like Sauber. Sauber now has more time to secure its second driver, with top target Carlos Sainz taking his time due to potential openings at Red Bull or Mercedes. Audi can take a calculated risk on the driver’s line-up knowing there are good fallback options later on. Moving to Sauber in 2025 could be a smart long-term move for drivers like Hulkenberg and potential targets like Albon or Bottas. The 2025 driver market is highly influenced by Audi’s presence, with ripple effects from Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, creating uncertainty down the grid. Teams like Haas, Alpine, and Williams are already feeling the consequences of Audi’s moves, with drivers like Gasly and Ocon potentially on the move. Williams’ future depends on securing drivers like Albon or potential replacements for Sargeant, while Alpine aims to retain at least one of its current drivers amidst a changing landscape in F1.
