Nico Hülkenberg Aims to Exploit Lewis Hamilton–Induced Shake Up in F1 to Land “Attractive” Seat

Almost every driver movement in Formula 1 tends to create a sort of domino effect that affects multiple teams in some way (big or small). However, Lewis Hamilton blew open the 2024 silly season and created a huge void at Mercedes with his decision to switch to Ferrari in 2025. There have already been multiple drivers including, Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, Esteban Ocon, etc. who have been linked to the Mercedes seat. And Nico Hülkenberg is planning to take advantage of what could turn out to be a huge shake-up in the driver’s market as the 2024 season goes on.

Nico Hülkenberg, who recently reached the milestone of 200 Grand Prix starts is gearing up for his second season with the Haas team. He impressed everyone in 2023 with his qualifying performance by consistently putting his car in the top 10 for the race on Sunday. However, due to the extremely poor tire degradation of the VF-23, he dropped down the order like a stone during the race. And with Ayao Komatsu already declaring that they’ll probably be the slowest car on the grid in 2024, Hülkenberg hopes to find a better opportunity moving forward.

Nico Hülkenberg wants to position himself to get into the best possible car for 2025

The German driver recently revealed that he has gone through intense and grueling training sessions in Mallorca over the winter break. Despite being 36, he found it relatively easy to reach top form compared to last year. Regarding his expectations for the upcoming season, Hülkenberg doesn’t anticipate dramatic improvements for Haas, a shared sentiment with the new team principal. However, he is eagerly looking forward to the movement in the driver’s market in the upcoming season.

When asked if Lewis Hamilton’s move has any significance for his place on the grid, Hülkenberg told Auto Motor und Sport, “Maybe. Things are shifting everywhere. It’s going to be an interesting few months. This also frees up an attractive cockpit. Every driver wants to get into the best possible car. That’s why you want to position yourself as best as possible. Of course, a lot depends on how much your car allows you and how you position yourself in the shop window. The car determines how you can perform and whether your share is traded more or less. Let’s see.“

He also shared his views on the departure of Guenther Steiner from the team. While there will be a period of adjustment resulting from the change in leadership, he believes that Komatsu’s familiarity with the team should ease the transition.

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While the German is still searching for his first Grand Prix win, his comeback season has raised his stocks in Formula 1.

Hülkenberg in a favorable position with the team that is soon to become Audi

With a strong comeback season with Haas, Hülkenberg has become a hot commodity in Formula 1. There have been numerous reports stating that Sauber (currently Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber), which is set to become Audi’s works team has shown interest in Nico Hülkenberg for the 2025 season. His experience more than anything is one of the most sought-after qualities for Audi and there is a growing interest from both parties in collaborating for the future.

However, Carlos Sainz can become a huge roadblock for the 36-year-old. The Spaniard has also been linked with Audi due to Sainz Sr’s long-standing connection.

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What are your thoughts on Hülkenberg’s prospects beyond the 2024 season? Share your insights in the comments down below.