Nico Hulkenberg’s Formula One career has seen several near misses that could have dramatically altered his trajectory. In a recent interview, the veteran driver revealed two significant opportunities he narrowly missed out on: joining Red Bull Racing in 2021 and securing a seat at Mercedes in 2013.
Key Takeaways
- Nico Hulkenberg was nearly selected as Max Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull in 2021 but Sergio Perez ultimately got the job.
- Hulkenberg was also considered for a Mercedes seat in 2013 when Michael Schumacher retired, but Lewis Hamilton joined instead.
- The German driver has remained philosophical about these missed opportunities and continues to impress with his performance in the 2025 season.
Red Bull’s decision to sign Sergio Perez over Hulkenberg in 2021 was a pivotal moment. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, revealed that Hulkenberg had been on their list of potential replacements for Alex Albon after impressing during his stints as a COVID-19 substitute driver. However, Perez’s victory at the Sakhir Grand Prix in 2020 tipped the scales in his favor.
Had Hulkenberg joined Red Bull, he could have been part of an era where Verstappen won four consecutive world championships and Red Bull clinched back-to-back constructors’ titles from 2022 to 2023. The German’s career would undoubtedly have taken a different path, potentially leading him to greater success and recognition.
Another missed opportunity came in 2013 when Mercedes was searching for Michael Schumacher’s replacement. Ross Brawn, then the team principal at Mercedes, revealed that Hulkenberg was on standby as a candidate should negotiations with Lewis Hamilton have fallen through. However, Hamilton signed with Mercedes and went on to dominate Formula One over the next decade.
Despite these setbacks, Hulkenberg has remained steadfast in his approach to racing. He recently broke his podium duck at the 2025 British Grand Prix, showcasing his skill and resilience. His performance this season mirrors that of seasoned drivers like Jenson Button or Fernando Alonso, who have continued to impress long after their prime years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Nico Hulkenberg ever seriously consider joining Red Bull in 2021?
Yes, according to Helmut Marko, Hulkenberg was a serious contender for the seat. However, Sergio Perez ultimately secured the position after winning the Sakhir Grand Prix.
Why didn’t Nico Hulkenberg get picked by Mercedes in 2013?
Mercedes eventually signed Lewis Hamilton instead of Hulkenberg. The team was uncertain about Hamilton’s future at McLaren, leading them to consider other options like Hulkenberg.
Hulkenberg’s career has been marked by resilience and consistency, even in the face of missed opportunities. His recent performance at Silverstone demonstrates that he remains a formidable competitor on the grid despite his advanced age for F1 drivers.
