Hulkenberg Urges Realism for Audi's F1 Entry Despite High Expectations

Nico Hulkenberg is preparing for a significant shift in perception as Sauber transforms into the Audi works team for the 2026 Formula 1 season. While acknowledging the increased attention and ambition that will accompany the Audi badge, the veteran driver is tempering expectations, emphasizing that immediate wins are unlikely and the team is at the beginning of a long journey.

Why it matters:

Audi's entry into Formula 1 as a full-fledged manufacturer in 2026 is one of the most anticipated developments on the grid. While the German giant's involvement signals a massive investment and commitment, Hulkenberg's realistic assessment provides a crucial counterpoint to potential over-optimism. Managing expectations from the outset can help the team focus on long-term development rather than short-term pressure, a common pitfall for new entrants with big aspirations.

The details:

• Shifting Perception: Hulkenberg notes that the team's perception will "change, for sure" with Audi's manufacturer status, bringing "a lot more eyes" and "a lot more expectations."
• Realistic Outlook: Despite the hype, Hulkenberg explicitly states, "I don't expect that we'll come and be winning races from the get-go; we're at the beginning of a long journey." He highlights that top teams still hold a significant advantage in infrastructure and factories.
• Experience as an Asset: At 38, Hulkenberg believes his extensive F1 experience, spanning multiple teams and eras (including ground-effect reboots and hybrid dawns), will be crucial in helping Audi "fast-track its learning curve" as the regulations change dramatically in 2026 with new power units and active aero.
• Driver Contribution: Beyond just racing, Hulkenberg aims to contribute significantly to the technical side, helping the team learn faster by blending his feel with data and engineering insights.
• Personal Milestone: For Hulkenberg, securing a factory drive with Audi after returning to F1 in 2023 is a "pretty crazy story" and a source of immense pride, an opportunity he believes is rare in a driver's career.

What's next:

Audi's arrival in 2026 will undoubtedly bring a new level of scrutiny and long-term ambition to the Hinwil-based squad. While Hulkenberg is ready for the challenge, his message is clear: the path to the top will be a gradual process requiring sustained effort and realistic goal-setting rather than instant miracles. The focus will be on building a competitive foundation, leveraging experienced personnel like Hulkenberg, and systematically closing the gap to established frontrunners over time.