Nico Hulkenberg

Nico Hulkenberg made the switch to Sauber for the 2025 F1 season as they gear up for Audi’s arrival.

Hulkenberg left Haas for Sauber. On paper, it was likely be a challenging season for the German, given his new team finished bottom of the constructors’ championship last year with just one points finish to their name.

But he ended his unwanted record as the F1 driver with the most races without a podium finish when he came third at the 2025 F1 British Grand Prix. It was a feelgood moment which the entire paddock enjoyed.

For Hülkenberg, his second stint in F1 has given him a new lease of life. Since returning to F1 with Haas in 2023, Hülkenberg has established himself as one of the sport’s top qualifiers and has generally been an impressive performer.

Alongside reigning F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, Hülkenberg should have a comfortable time as he looks to take Sauber up the standings ahead of Audi’s official involvement in 2026.

At 37, Hulkenberg is the third-oldest driver on the grid, behind Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Making his F1 debut in 2010 with Williams, Hülkenberg has driven for a host of midfield teams.

After sitting out the 2011 season, Hulkenberg returned to the sport in 2012 before joining Sauber 12 months later. That Sauber move didn’t work out, and he found himself back at Force India for three years.

During the early part of his career, Hülkenberg’s most notable moments were taking pole position in a Williams at the 2010 Brazilian Grand Prix and challenging the McLarens for victory two years later at Interlagos.

Hulkenberg left Force India to head up Renault's works team. After three years, he was without a drive, having been outperformed by Daniel Ricciardo, while the French manufacturer opted to sign Esteban Ocon.

His stand-in performances during the COVID-hit 2020 campaign meant Hulkenberg remained a key player in the driver market and was in contention to join Red Bull. Red Bull ultimately chose Sergio Perez, leaving Hulkenberg to wait until 2023 to return to the grid, replacing Mick Schumacher at Haas.

Hulkenberg played a major role in Haas’ best championship finish since 2018, finishing seventh in the constructors’ standings with 10 points finishes.