Nico Hulkenberg was left stunned when he learned that Andreas Seidl had been dismissed by Audi.
Hulkenberg, who had previously attributed his move from Haas to the Sauber-Audi project to Seidl, his former boss at Porsche, found the news surprising.
“I was taken aback,” Hulkenberg said at Spa-Francorchamps. “I made the deal with Seidl and Oliver Hoffman, and their departure was unexpected.”
Hulkenberg revealed that Audi CEO Gernot Dollner personally informed him about the changes. “It was reassuring to see the top boss involved in the project, but it was still a shock,” the 36-year-old driver admitted.
Despite the upheaval, Hulkenberg remains optimistic about the future. “Everyday life has resumed, and I’m still excited to be part of this project. It’s a bit sad that the people who brought me in are gone, but the main goal is the success of the team.”
Hulkenberg also commented on the new addition to the team, former Ferrari chief Mattia Binotto. “I only know him superficially from the paddock, but that will change soon,” he noted.
Sauber has struggled this season, being the only team without a point, but Hulkenberg remains hopeful. “With some positive input from their side and what I can bring, I believe we can start turning things around, maybe as soon as next year,” he said.
“I’m not expecting a giant leap, but even a small step can get us back into the midfield.”
Hulkenberg’s optimism and commitment to the Sauber-Audi project shine through despite the recent changes, indicating a determined and resilient approach as he looks forward to the future.
