Nico Hulkenberg's name disappeared from Formula 1 after the 2019 season, but the German returned (for good) in 2023. At Haas F1 last year, he was frequently stronger than teammate Kevin Magnussen, a trend that looks set to continue this season. But driving another year at the American team is not something Ralf Schumacher would advise him to do.
Hulkenberg has scored three points in the world championship for now. While Haas F1 scored more points than renowned teams like Alpine and Stake F1 Team (Audi in 2026), Schumacher would still not recommend extending his expiring contract.
Haas F1 needs to invest more
"No, definitely not," the former Formula 1 driver told Sky's German branch when asked if Hulkenberg should sign his new commitment. "Haas F1 is definitely a great team and everything will get better there, but the structure is not focused on the future. There is not enough looking to the future."
"Investment is needed, but it is not happening because [team owner] Gene Haas has other ideas. It's a nice, small team for newcomers like Oliver Bearman."
With his good performance, Hulkenberg has undoubtedly attracted interest from other teams. Only Ferrari and McLaren have already completed the driver line-up for next season. Eight drivers are already sure of a spot with a team in Formula 1, the other 12 drivers have not yet signed.
"Haas F1 is definitely a great team and everything will get better there..."
What? Ralf hit his head too many times.
The more he hits his head, the worse it gets. I wonder what bs he will come up next.
He is lucky to be still in F1 at 36 years old. Its different compared to the other two older drivers than him still in the sport, as they are multiple world champions.
Here, we are talking of a driver that has not even managed to get onto the podium after 207 race starts!
Dont see any other 'higher' teams who will choose him over another more promising young driver.
Hulk scored a whopping 9 points in 2023.....3 less than Mick scored the year before.(Though Mag did score in the mid 20's in 22)....and all of the sudden he is wanted by other teams?
Based on what exactly?
I think Hulk would have been a perfect Pedro de la Rosa type of test driver,had we still allowed teams to test during the season....but I think he has had his shot and should.make way for someone younger.
And when I say younger,I don't mean a pay driver or one signed based on association,I mean a talented youngster.OB for instance.
Beating Magnusson by 6 points is hardly a endorsement....
At 36,I don't see why a team would want to invest in someone who couldn't deliver much,even when he was 10 years younger.
He has jumped from one team to another,more than that lady at the bar has jumped from one bloke to the other.
I guess maybe he wants to make sure his record of most starts without a podium never gets broken....but why?
I could have seen him go to Stake to help setup Audi,due to his experience,but would be shocked if Sainz does not get that seat.
A 29 year old,driving the best he has against a 36 year old,who almost achieved something.
"With his good performance, Hulkenberg has undoubtedly attracted interest from other teams."
I'm not sure there is interest from other teams. I would put my money on Haas being Hülkenbergs only option. And if it is only option, then he should absolutely extend his contract, if he is allowed to. Maybe Audi is an option, him being german.
I don't understand this investment talk either from Schumacher. Does he know the numbers? Cause you need to know Haas financial situation to say what needs to be done financially.
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