D/T 2024-04-25 08:39 (CEST)
F1 insider
Ralf Bach
In re: Sauber next choice of a driver, Nico Hülkenberg (36)
https://f1-insider.com/formel-1-huelken ... e_vignette
As predicted and hoped for...
The big shift in the Formula 1 transfer market is gradually taking shape. According to information from F1-Insider.com, one of two places in the future Audi team is now occupied. Audi and the German Nico Hülkenberg (36) agree to go together from 2025. The only thing missing is the signature.
Audi is offering
Hülkenberg a long-term contract with a term of at least three years. Seidl from Lower Bavaria still has to wait for his second dream pilot. The Spaniard
Carlos Sainz is still hesitant.
He has to decide by mid-May, then Audi wants to talk to other drivers, for example with the French Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon. Both of their contracts with Alpine are expiring and both are toying with a move. Zhou and Bottas have no chance.
Hülkenberg and Audi would come together, something that has long belonged together in their self-image. F1-Insider.com knows:
The Emmerich native actually wanted to drive for Sauber, the future Audi team, this year (2024), but Haas refused to give permission.
I think three years cycle for a driver makes sense for several reasons. I don't put much faith into bus stops a year and similar stunts represent.