Hulkenberg on F1 future: "I think a couple more years"

Nico Hulkenberg's F1 future is secured. The experienced German will be leaving Haas to join Sauber, (Stake F1) a team that he drove for over 10 years ago. The Swiss team will become Audi when the decorated manufacturer enters the sport in 2026. Will the 36-year-old, who has started over 200 Grand Prix, be willing to stay in F1 alongside veterans like Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton?

Nico Hulkenberg began driving in Formula 1 for Williams in 2010. He has since driven for Force India, Sauber, Renault, Racing Point and Aston Martin in his long career. Speaking on media day in China, Hulkenberg told the media that he was not sure how long he would continue racing after the media asked him his opinion on Fernando Alono's longevity. The 42-year-old signed a contract extension with Aston Martin, which will take him to the end of 2026.

"Obviously, I'm not as far away (from Alonso and Hamilton) as these guys. It's Always difficult to predict the future. How long do you want to do something? I think a couple more years. 40 is not that crazy far away for me personally. Let’s see,"

Hulkenberg said this prior to his contract announcement on media day in China. As we know now, he will be sticking around for a few more years with Audi. Time will tell whether or not the German will continue into his 40s like Fernando Alonso. Hulkenberg will celebrate his 39th birthday in 2026.