Audi reportedly clinches a three-year contract with Nico Hulkenberg, as reported by a German specialist outlet. The 36-year-old is expected to transition from Haas to the Audi-owned Sauber team from 2025 onwards.
According to F1-insider.com, Audi is on the brink of confirming Hulkenberg's contract as the mid-May deadline approaches for a final decision. The deal reportedly spans three years, covering the 2025 to 2027 seasons.
"Only the signature is still missing," stated journalist Ralf Bach.
When approached for comment, 36-year-old Hulkenberg stated, "I don't participate in speculation."
Speculation remains regarding Carlos Sainz's decision on a similar offer from Audi, with driver announcements anticipated by the end of the following month.
The shift spells trouble for Sauber's current drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Guanyu Zhou, yet signals a potential opportunity for Oliver Bearman at Haas.
"Bottas is past his prime and Guanyu is not good enough at the end of the day," remarked former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher.
"Audi wants to get stronger every year and be optimally positioned in 2026, when there are new car and engine regulations. With Hulkenberg and Sainz, they certainly will be."
The situation poses a significant challenge for Finn Bottas, a former victor with Mercedes, as he seeks to retain his position in Formula 1.
"There aren't many options, but they are there," said the 34-year-old Bottas.
