Nico Hulkenberg has praised Audi for their approach in managing the transition of their Formula 1 project, highlighting a recent phone call from CEO Gernot Doellner as a testament to the German manufacturer's commitment and respect.
Huleknberg, who will join the Sauber team in 2025 before it becomes the Audi works outfit in 2026, was personally informed by Doellner of the recent management changes at the Swiss outfit.
In recent weeks, Audi's F1 project has undergone a series of high-profile changes. Andreas Seidl and Oliver Hoffmann have been replaced, with former Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto stepping in as Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer.
Additionally, Red Bull's sporting director Jonathan Wheatley is set to join as the new team principal next year. Amidst these significant shifts, Hulkenberg was personally informed by Doellner, a move that left a lasting impression on the German driver.
"It shows respect and shows how serious he and the brand are about it and that they're not taking this lightly, that they are paying attention,” commented Hulkenberg, quoted by Motorsport.com.
“They do see what's happening, what's going on and that was good. Very good."
Audi AG CEO Gernot Doellner.
Hulkenberg’s move to Audi marks a significant step forward for the 37-year-old F1 veteran, following a period of uncertainty that saw him spend three years on the sidelines as a reserve driver before returning to the grid full-time with Haas in 2023.
"It is a big challenge, no question about that," he recognized. "Going to what will be Audi, what will be a German manufacturer, German driver, a lot of attention, a lot of expectation - it's not going to be an easy one.
"But my approach to my work and the definition isn't changing. I'm going to go there with everything I have and then try to contribute in and out of the car as much as I can.
"That's what I love doing and hopefully, collectively, we can make it a success."
While Hulkenberg is excited about the prospect of driving for a works team, he remains focused on the present. But he’s confident in his abilities and remains committed to racing as long as he feels competitive.
"I don't feel old or kind of that I'm close to my due date, I don't look at that and I don't think about that. I take it step by step, season by season,” he explained.
"At the moment, I think I still have what it takes and as long as that's the case, that's good and I will carry on and, as long as I'm wanted here... that's obviously always the first thing you need, you need someone to have you in the car.”
However, he is also realistic about knowing when to step away.
"The other thing is if I feel I can't keep up with the young kids, I'll probably even cut it off myself. But I'm not there yet - but I don't know when that will be."
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