Hulkenberg Has High Confidence in Audi’s F1 Debut: “I am impressed”

News from Motorsport.com reports that Nico Hülkenberg recently visited Audi’s Neuburg facility, where development of the 2026 hybrid F1 power unit is in full swing. The German driver, who joined Audi’s project this season, was given a tour by Audi Formula Racing CEO Adam Baker and CTO Stefan Dreyer.

“I am impressed by what I have seen,” Hülkenberg shared. “The facility showcases Audi’s serious commitment to F1. After my tour with Adam and Stefan, I’m excited by the team’s progress on the 2026 power unit. It was great to meet the passionate people behind this project.”

Hülkenberg’s enthusiasm follows his signing with Sauber in April 2024 on a multi-year contract, as the team transitions into Audi’s official F1 outfit in 2026.

The Neuburg facility plays a central role in this transformation. Audi has expanded its Competence Center Motorsport to accommodate F1 development, including a new 3,000-square-meter engine development space. The Audi Power Unit has already undergone simulated race distances on the test bench, with Audi Formula Racing CEO Adam Baker highlighting the team’s early successes.

“After just two years, our power unit—including the combustion engine, electric motor, battery, and control electronics, is running dynamically on the test bench,” Baker stated. “Significant milestones have been achieved, giving the entire team confidence.”

While Neuburg focuses on power unit development, the chassis is being built in Hinwil, Switzerland, leveraging Sauber’s existing infrastructure. Together, these efforts mark Audi’s determined push toward its F1 debut in 2026.