Haas have announced that Nico Hulkenberg will leave the team at the end of 2024 season for Sauber.
Confirmation of Hulkenberg’s departure comes after rumours emerged that he was set to join Sauber next season ahead of their transition to Audi in 2026, which Sauber confirmed shortly after Haas announced the German’s exit.
Haas Team Principal, Ayao Komatsu paid tribute to Hulkenberg for his efforts within the team since he joined last season, as he praised the German for his work ethic and performances on and off track.
“I’d like to extend my thanks to Nico for his contributions to the team in the time that he’s been here with us – he’s been a great team player and someone we very much enjoy working with.
“His experience and feedback have proved invaluable to us in terms of improving our overall performance – a fact that’s clearly evident in both his qualifying and race performances in the VF-24 this season.
“There’s lots more racing to go this year so we look forward to continuing to benefit from his inputs throughout the remainder of the 2024 season.”
Hulkenberg will head to Sauber on a multi-year contract ahead of their transition to Audi for the 2026 season, which will mark his second stint at the team after he spent the 2013 season there and finished 10th in the championship with 51 points.
“We are very pleased to welcome Nico back here in Hinwil from 2025 and to compete with him in Formula 1,” said Andreas Seidl, CEO of Sauber Motorsport AG and also CEO of the future Audi F1 factory team.
“With his speed, his experience and his commitment to teamwork, he will be an important part of the transformation of our team – and of Audi’s F1 project.
“Right from the start, there was great mutual interest in building something long-term together. Nico is a strong personality, and his input, on a professional and personal level, will help us to make progress both in the development of the car and in building up the team.”
Hulkenberg spoke of his previous spell with the team upon confirmation of his return but is excited to drive for Audi.
“I’m returning to the team I worked with back in 2013 and have fond memories of the strong team spirit in Switzerland.
“The prospect of competing for Audi is something very special. When a German manufacturer enters Formula 1 with such determination, it is a unique opportunity. To represent the factory team of such a car brand with a power unit made in Germany is a great honour for me.”
Haas is expected to name Ferrari junior, Oliver Bearman as Hulkenberg’s replacement in due course – having initially looked set to pair Bearman and Hulkenberg together, meaning that Kevin Magnussen could retain his seat for continuity.
Sauber meanwhile could retain one of Valtteri Bottas or Guanyu Zhou although outgoing Ferrari driver, Carlos Sainz is currently linked with the team.
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