Nico Hulkenberg was left “impressed” by the progress made on the Audi Formula 1 project after visiting the German marque’s power unit facility in Neuburg, Germany.
Hulkenberg has embarked on a multi-year deal with Sauber ahead of its transformation into the Audi works team in 2026.
That transformation also includes the work of over 400 people developing a bespoke powertrain in Germany to power Audi into its F1 dawn.
With a greater focus on electrification in 2026, many believe F1 could become an engine-dominated formula, making the work in Neuburg vital to Audi’s success.
Hulkenberg visited the facility ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix and talked up the “progress” being made.
“I am impressed by what I have seen,” Hulkenberg said.
“The facility demonstrates how seriously Audi takes F1.
“Everything Audi has done in motorsport has been executed with precision.
“After [Audi Formula Racing GmbH CEO] Adam [Baker] and [CTO of Audi Formula Racing GmbH] Stefan [Dryer] gave me a tour of the factory, I am excited by the progress the team has made on the 2026 power unit.
“It was a pleasure to talk to the people in Neuburg and feel their passion.
“They are all working tirelessly and with dedication to make this project a success.
“I’m proud to be a part of this journey and excited for the years ahead.”
Sauber chiefs facing present challenges
In the present moment, the Audi F1 project has welcomed its new Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, into the fold.
The former Red Bull Sporting Director is in Sauber colours for the first time this weekend at the Japanese GP, and he is excited to put his best foot forward.
“After spending time meeting our employees at the factory in Hinwil, I am excited to join the team at the historic Suzuka circuit for my first race and get working on our plans for this season and beyond,” Wheatley said.
He joins a Sauber squad which overperformed in the mixed conditions of Australia in the season-opener, where Hulkenberg’s seventh-place finish outscored the team’s entire 2024 points tally.
In China, Sauber went scoreless with its position at the foot of the F1 pecking order exposed, but COO & CTO Mattia Binotto has seen signs of encouragement.
“The first few races of the season have given us a solid understanding of where we stand as a team and where we need to improve,” he said.
“Both Melbourne and Shanghai showed that we have the potential to fight for points, while China was more unlucky and difficult, but still valuable in terms of data and learning.
“Suzuka is a circuit that demands precision and confidence in high-speed corners, and it will be crucial to get everything right from the start of the weekend.
“With a triple-header ahead, consistency will be key – we need to take advantage of every opportunity and keep making progress.
“The team is working hard, both trackside and back at base in Hinwil, and we are fully focused on moving forward together.”
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