Did Hulkenberg opt for the correct project? 'I see that firsthand'
F1 News
Last week, it was announced that Haas F1 will enter a partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing, starting already at the US Grand Prix. The Japanese are now Haas' 'Official Technical Partner'. Nico Hulkenberg has previously opted for joining the Audi project this season, and will join the team starting next year. Would the German change his mind given the latest partnership in the competition?
Nico Hulkenberg will join Stake F1 (to become Audi in 2026) next season, and is currently the only driver officially signed to the Audi project. "I knew it," the German exclamed in Austin. However, Hulkenberg would not change his decision given the latest news, and looks forward to his next challenge.
"Sad? Not because of that. I like the team. By the end, I will have spent two years here, and it's been a very happy two years, very positive. I've really enjoyed myself, but obviously, I made a conscious decision early in the year, now quite some time ago already, to pursue a different opportunity. One that is very exciting, very big, big challenge, big job," he explained.
"Am I going to be sad to leave here and not work with some people? Yes. But that's life and that's motorsport," he continued.
Hulkenberg believes Stake F1 can complete turn around next year already
"No, it wouldn't. At the end of last year, look where we were and how we started this year, how fast of a turnaround it can be. Things can change so fast at Formula 1, it's so dynamic," the German driver explains why he has faith in his next team.
"I've seen it here with Haas and experienced it firsthand how quickly it can improve and be better, and there's no reason why my next year's team couldn't do the same."
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