Ground-effect cars are leaving F1, but not everyone is happy to see them go

18:29, 21 Dec 2025
Updated: 18:47, 21 Dec 2025
9 Comments
Nico Hulkenberg says he will miss the previous generation of Formula 1 cars.
"[I'm] not really [happy to see this cars go] to be honest, I enjoyed these cars."
- Nico Hulkenberg
Starting next season, a regulation change will take effect in Formula 1, with the rules being completely overhauled.
Hulkenberg, who achieved his first podium this season at the British Grand Prix with Sauber, explained that he has liked the ground-effect cars.
Speaking to GPblog in Abu Dhabi, he explained: "[I'm] not really [happy to see this cars go] to be honest, I enjoyed these cars.
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"Obviously this year, following and therefore racing has become a little bit too difficult and too sensitive. That was a bit of a pity. But over the last few years, of course, they've been ground-effect stiff, but to be honest, I didn't mind that.
"I think they were very fast, very spectacular and dynamic, especially now in the last years, breaking a lot of lap-time records."
hulkenberg-abu-dhabi
Hulkenberg at the Abu Dhabi GP - Photo: Race Pictures

Hulkenberg cautious about 2026 F1 cars

On the other hand, regarding the next-generation cars, the German driver remained cautious.
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The German added: "So we don't know how it's going to feel next year. So it's 'be careful what you wish for.' But obviously, we don't know about that yet."
A great change awaits Hulkenberg's team next season, as Sauber will transform into Audi. The German squad will also use its in-house power unit next season onward. The team's car will be launched on 20 January.

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