Nico Hulkenberg Reflects on Missed Ferrari Opportunity

Nico Hulkenberg has opened up about how close he came to joining Ferrari in 2014, admitting he would have relished the chance but remains a realist about his career path. Despite a long and varied career spanning 17 seasons in Formula 1, the German driver ultimately never made it to the iconic Scuderia.

Why it matters:

• For any F1 driver, a seat at Ferrari represents the pinnacle of the sport, offering both prestige and a genuine shot at a championship.
• Hulkenberg's near-misses highlight the fine margins that define careers in F1, where talent alone isn't always enough to secure the most coveted positions.
• His reflections come as he enjoys a career resurgence, finally achieving a long-awaited podium finish, demonstrating resilience and continued competitive spirit.

The Details:

• Hulkenberg revealed to Automoto.it that he was "very close" to joining Ferrari for the 2014 season.
• He humorously suggested asking Stefano Domenicali, who was then Team Principal at Ferrari, for more details on the potential move.
• Despite the missed opportunity, Hulkenberg stated, "It doesn't torment me. I would have liked to have had a chance, there's no doubt about it."
• He emphasized his realistic approach: "I'm not someone who dwells on the past; I'm simple, in that respect. I'm a realist."
• Hulkenberg has competed for Force India, Renault, Aston Martin, Haas, and currently Sauber, making his F1 debut as a test driver for Williams in 2009.

The Big Picture:

• Hulkenberg's F1 journey has been marked by consistency and strong performances, but often in midfield teams, leading to a record for the most starts without a podium.
• His career, now in its 17th season, has seen him take on various roles, showcasing his adaptability and enduring passion for the sport.
• The recent 2025 British Grand Prix marked a significant milestone, as he finally secured his maiden podium finish, breaking a 239-race streak.
  • This achievement, earning P3, has contributed significantly to Sauber's improved performance, with the team now sitting on 55 points and P8 in the Constructors' Championship, a substantial leap from their four points in 2024.

What's next:

• Hulkenberg's move to Sauber for the 2025 season is strategically aligned with the upcoming Audi project, which will take over the team in 2026.
• His strong current form and recent podium finish position him as a valuable asset for Sauber as they transition into the Audi era.
• His experience and recent success could play a crucial role in Audi's ambitions to establish themselves as a competitive force in Formula 1.