F1: NICO HULKENBERG SET TO SIGN THREE-YEAR DEAL WITH AUDI - REPORT

Nico Hulkenberg is all set to sign a three-year deal with Audi as they gear up for their Formula 1 debut in 2026.

According to a SPORT1 report, the only thing said to be missing is the “signature”.

Hulkenberg joining Audi could mark a significant shift in the driver market with German manufacturers accelerating and expanding their commitment to Formula 1 by choosing to take a 100% stake in Swiss operation Sauber, ahead of their arrival in the sport in 2026.

"One of two places in the future Audi team is now occupied! Audi and the German Nico Hülkenberg have agreed to go together from 2025. The only thing missing is the signature," the SPORT1 report said.

"Those involved are still officially silent, but a statement could be released by the end of May," it added.

Asked about the report by the publication, Hulkenberg smiled: "I don’t take part in speculation"

The report further said that Audi have offered Hulkenberg a three-year deal with the German driver expected to line-up alongside Carlos Sainz next season.

Why does Audi Want Nico Hulkenberg and Carlos Sainz?

By roping in both Hulkenberg and Sainz, Audi wants to blend experienced talent with proven race-winning capabilities.

Sainz's current situation at Ferrari makes him a prime candidate for Audi's ambitious project.

Notably, both Sainz and Hulkenberg are drivers with factory experience behind them, with the two having been team-mates at Renault in 2018 before Sainz's move to Ferrari following his McLaren spell.

Both drivers are renowned for their technical knowledge and ability and the CEO of the Audi project Andreas Seidl believes that they will be valuable in building up the new team.

While Hulkenberg is set to sign with Audi, Sainz continues to evaluate his options in the driver market. He has not yet committed to Audi on the basis that there could be a Red Bull seat open for 2025 if Max Verstappen does leave for Mercedes.

2024-04-25T12:41:39Z dg43tfdfdgfd