Hulkenberg's Italian GP DNS: Sauber Explains Hydraulic Failure

Hulkenberg's Italian GP Ends Prematurely

Nico Hülkenberg's 2025 Italian Grand Prix came to an abrupt end before the race even started, as the Sauber driver was forced to retire his car at the end of the formation lap. A hydraulic issue with his Ferrari power unit prevented him from taking the grid at Monza.

Why it matters: This early retirement is a significant blow for Hülkenberg, who was set to start in 12th position. It marks another setback in a season that has seen mixed results for the German driver, despite achieving a maiden podium at the British Grand Prix. Consistency has been a challenge, and this mechanical failure further exacerbates his points struggle.

The details:

• Issue identified: Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley confirmed the issue was hydraulic and originated during the "final fire-up on the grid."
• Timing: Activity was observed around Hülkenberg's car approximately seven minutes before the race start, indicating the team's frantic efforts to resolve the problem.
• Complexity: Wheatley explained that the car's intricate systems, with most components "buried deep inside them," made it impossible to fix the issue on the grid.
• Power unit related: The problem was linked to the new Ferrari power unit, leading the team to conclude retirement was the safest option.

Hülkenberg's frustration: The German driver expressed his disappointment following qualifying, lamenting a botched first run in Q2 that left him vulnerable and forced him to take risks in his final lap.

• "First run in Q2 I messed up that lap and, you know, basically didn't have anything on the board so that obviously leaves you a little bit vulnerable going into the final lap and didn't want to end up in 15th."
• "So I had to take margins here and there which... those hundreds at the end are costly and they make a difference."

What's next: Sauber will now conduct a thorough investigation into the hydraulic failure to understand its root cause and prevent recurrence. For Hülkenberg, the focus will quickly shift to the next race, aiming to bounce back from this frustrating non-start and find the consistency he's been seeking.