Nico Hulkenberg has confirmed Audi F1 has shown “interest” in the only German driver on the current grid for 2026.
Despite beliefs that Mick Schumacher was the prime target, the Haas driver has appeared as the key target for the German manufacturer.
With both Sebastian Vettel and Schumacher taking their leave last season, it leaves Hulkenberg as the only current German F1 driver.
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Speaking to Sky Germany, he said: “There were discussions. I know Andreas Seidl very well from his Porsche and F1 days. We get along it’s no secret.”
Audi will formally enter the paddock in 2026 with Sauber returning to the grid for one season in 2025.
Hulkenberg is well-known as a consistent driver. While yet to score a podium or win in F1, he proved himself as a reliable midfield driver at Renault.
On top of this, Hulkenberg is the only Le Mans winner on the grid. In 2015 he won Le Mans with Porsche, beating the sister car driven by Mark Webber and Brendon Hartley.
Hulkenberg admitted to holding talks about joining the team as early as 2024. However, he signed a new deal with Haas despite this.
He said: “There were discussions, there was interest. At the end of the day, it didn’t happen.
“I think it will be very interesting next year and that the cards will be reshuffled.”
Suggesting he might move next year, Hulkenberg seems keen to state that his F1 career will not end at Haas.
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“It’s still up in the air whether they will be a top team or not. They have to prove that and achieve it first.”
Currently 36, Hulkenberg will be 39 in 2026. While Fernando Alonso has proven age is just a concept, one could question if this will be a major factor in Audi’s decision.
However, taking a step back from some of his statements, Hulkenberg suggested much of the talks are still up in the air.
He said: “It always depends on how good the package is that you have. How well you can present yourself or not.
“When Audi finally gets started in 2026, it’s still up in the air whether they will be a top team or not. They have to prove that and achieve it first. So there are still some question marks.
“I’m currently here, at home, and everything else is up in the air.”
Sky Germany is airing an interview with Hulkenberg about his talks with Audi on Sunday. The Mexican GP will be his 200th Grand Prix.
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