Nico Hulkenberg 'shocked' with Audi F1's decision to shuffle leadership roles

Nico Hulkenberg, the seasoned Formula 1 driver, has expressed his surprise following the recent shakeup in Audi’s F1 project leadership. Audi, gearing up to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026 by acquiring the Sauber-owned team currently known as Stake F1, announced significant changes earlier this week.

The departure of Audi F1 CEO Andreas Seidl and its chief representative Oliver Hoffmann marked a pivotal shift in the team's management, with ex-Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto set to take the helm starting in August.

Despite the abrupt changes, Nico Hulkenberg remains optimistic about Audi’s future in Formula 1. “No, not concerned, that was a bit of a wave, a bit of a shock,” he told the media. Hulkenberg, who has signed a multi-year deal with Audi, acknowledged the emotional impact of the news. “The fact that two people who were closely involved in signing me are not there anymore, of course, maybe [it is] a bit sad,” he admitted.

“I’m more interested in the project”, says Hulkenberg

However, Hulkenberg’s focus remains firmly on the project’s potential and success. “But I’m more interested in the project, joining F1 with Audi, and making it a successful story,” he emphasized. He is confident that the team's vision and strategy will remain intact despite the leadership changes. “It was an unexpected change. I was informed the day of the announcement about the group's decision by Gernot Döllner himself.”

Hulkenberg acknowledged the significance of Seidl and Hoffmann’s roles in his recruitment, saying, “Of course, they were influential, these were the two guys we did the deal with, so that's that.” However, he also recognized the fluid nature of leadership in Formula 1, noting, “I think big projects like this, you have in the management people that are big pillars of such projects. But you never just rely on one or two people. In F1, everyone is changeable.”

Looking ahead, Hulkenberg is eager to work with Mattia Binotto, whose arrival marks his return to F1 management after leaving Ferrari at the end of 2022. “In terms of Mattia, I know him from the past from the paddock, but I've never worked with him,” Hulkenberg said. “But that will change in a few months.”