F1 Rumour: Audi Sets Sights On Two Current Drivers For 2026 Entry

Audi, prepping for its F1 entry in 2026 with Sauber, is reportedly targeting drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Ocon for its driver line-up.

As Audi prepares for its F1 debut in collaboration with Sauber, Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Ocon emerge as potential driver targets for the team in 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Audi confirms its F1 entry in 2026 in partnership with Sauber. While Sauber will design the car, Audi will be responsible for producing power units.
• Recent reports indicate Hulkenberg being a preferred driver choice by some factions, possibly backed by Audi due to his German roots.
• Esteban Ocon, currently with Alpine, has also been linked with Audi, suggesting he's a priority signing for the automaker.

As Formula 1 garners increased attention globally, big names like Audi are entering the fray. Their partnership with Sauber marks a strategic move, tapping into the Swiss-based team's expertise to design cars while Audi focusses on power units. However, many questions hover around Audi’s imminent entry into the sport, especially their involvement with Sauber before the official 2026 debut.

Earlier in the year, Zhou Guanyu’s one-year extension with Alfa Romeo/Sauber raised eyebrows amidst rumours of internal disagreements. Some factions within the team were keen on roping in the seasoned Nico Hulkenberg, who currently drives for Haas. Rumours even hinted that Audi might back such a decision, given their inclination for a German driver.

Further fuelling these speculations, recent reports from Motorsport.com suggest Sauber is aiming to sign Hulkenberg for the 2025 season. This move will allow him to familiarise himself with the team dynamics ahead of Audi's full-fledged arrival.

Yet, Hulkenberg isn’t the only driver Audi is reportedly eyeing. Esteban Ocon, whose contract with Alpine concludes next year, has been linked to the German manufacturer. Despite his untested Championship potential, Ocon’s race win and several podiums make him a valuable asset for Audi.

F1 Rumour: Alfa Romeo Tried To Replace Zhou Guanyu With Nico Hulkenberg

However, a move for either driver remains uncertain. While Hulkenberg's shift seems more plausible, Ocon's current alignment with a works’ team like Alpine complicates matters.

Alpine F1 Instagram