Audi retains its first driver for the 2025 season

Widely used before the arrival in Formula 1, Audi has already found one of its two drivers for the 2025 season and the chosen track does not answer the most emphasized rumors heard in recent weeks.

The transition from Sauber to Audi is slowly being prepared. The German manufacturer, which should arrive in Formula 1 in 2026, is already placing its pawns to reach the best in this category of motor sports. And, with this in mind, the company has been thinking for several weeks about the drivers who will take the seats of the team in the coming years.

German in Audi

The most persistent rumors reported Audi’s desire to bring a star to the team as soon as possible. Many echoes suggested that Spaniard Carlos Sainz, pushed towards the Ferrari exit, was holding the rope. However, according to F1-insider.comThe German brand would have decided to give its first seat to Nico Hülkenberg.

🔴 According to @F1insidercom, Audi has reportedly made its decision and should soon sign Nico Hülkenberg for 2025! ✍️

The two sides would reach an agreement and what is missing now is a signature. The press release “may be published at the end of May”.

Still according to… pic.twitter.com/89ZoV0n8LD

— Off Track (@OffTrack_FR) April 24, 2024

According to a special website, the German pilot will be Andreas Seidl’s first choice, project manager at Audi. He was impressed with his performance at Haas and highly appreciates the experience of the 36-year-old. His nationality also plays a big role, because he would fit perfectly into the marketing concept of the Ingolstadt manufacturer. At the end of his contract at the end of the season, the German should sign a three-year contract with Audi. Nothing has been signed yet, but formalization should arrive by the end of May at the very least.

Who for the second seat?

If Nico Hülkenberg joins Audi, it remains to be seen who will occupy the second seat. Andreas Seidl would always think of Carlos Sainz, but the latter is still hesitant about his future. According to F1-insider.comThe Spaniard would have until the end of May to decide, after which the German manufacturer will negotiate with other drivers, such as the French. Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly.

🚨 Based on @Gazetta_hilo, Audi “would start talks with Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly”! 💬🇫🇷

The two Frenchmen are at the end of their contracts with Alpine at the end of the season.#F1 pic.twitter.com/rfvZ0ez2Ws

– Sector F1 (@Secteur_F1) April 12, 2024

The only certainty about the second seat is that it will not go to one of the two drivers under contract with Sauber. Therefore, Valtteri Bottas, who seems to be in decline, Guanyu Zhou, who is not completely convinced, will not stay, Audi prefers to make a fresh start.