Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, might have had Nico Hulkenberg as his teammate at Red Bull if circumstances had been different. In light of recent comments by Helmut Marko and insights from Ralf Schumacher, questions have resurfaced about whether Red Bull missed an opportunity by not signing Hulkenberg when searching for a replacement for Alex Albon in 2020. This discussion brings the idea of Hulkenberg as the Max Verstappen ideal team-mate at Red Bull back into focus.
At that time, Red Bull ultimately chose Sergio Perez for their lineup starting in 2021. Perez’s addition proved successful as he contributed heavily to the team‘s securing of back-to-back constructors‘ championships in 2022 and 2023, alongside winning five Grands Prix for the Milton Keynes squad. Despite this, Hulkenberg’s capabilities and potential team chemistry with Verstappen remain topics of interest among F1 experts.
Hulkenberg’s Journey Back to Formula 1
During the 2020 season, Sergio Perez performed strongly at Racing Point, clinching his first career win at the Sakhir Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Nico Hulkenberg was without a full-time seat after leaving previous racing commitments but stepped in as a stand-in driver for Racing Point in two races, scoring 10 points. His performance demonstrated that he retained the skill to compete at the highest level despite the time away from a full-time drive.
Hulkenberg’s return as a full-time driver came in 2023 with Haas, where he steadily improved and made significant strides. His recent move to Sauber, ahead of its transition to Audi power, has further solidified his resurgence within the sport. This trajectory has sparked renewed consideration of his potential in top-tier teams, including Red Bull.
Expert Perspectives on Hulkenberg’s Compatibility with Red Bull
Ralf Schumacher, a former F1 driver and fellow German, shared his perspective about Hulkenberg during a recent Backstage Boxengasse podcast. Schumacher pointed out that Hulkenberg has matured, both as a driver and a person, noting his age and life experience have contributed to a more relaxed and focused approach.
You have to be honest and say that Nico has also made his development like all of us in life,
Schumacher said.
It may sound a little strange but in Formula 1 he is experiencing a second spring, so to be able to come back and still have his place and still be able to perform at his best is going perfectly.
The discussion also covered Helmut Marko’s recent confirmation that negotiations with Hulkenberg had taken place before Red Bull’s decision to sign Perez. Schumacher expressed his belief that Hulkenberg could still be a valuable addition to the team.
Dr. Helmut Marko said it was also good that they decided on Perez at the end of 2020 and not on Nico Hulkenberg,
Schumacher explained, continuing,
Who knows what else would have been possible, although I would have liked to see it now, I also believe that Nico would have played a good role in a life at Red Bull with Max Verstappen.
He further highlighted the positive personal relationship between Hulkenberg and Verstappen, suggesting it could foster a productive and harmonious partnership.
I also think that because the two get along well, Max would have taken to him even more,
Schumacher added.
The Broader Impact on Red Bull’s Future Lineup
The prospect of Nico Hulkenberg teaming up with Max Verstappen raises important questions about the dynamic within Red Bull’s garage. While Sergio Perez has brought undeniable success, the possibility of pairing Verstappen with a teammate like Hulkenberg, who is both experienced and compatible, presents a different strategic approach. Hulkenberg’s return to form and steady progress with Haas and Sauber show his continued relevance in the sport.
If Red Bull were to revisit the idea of bringing Hulkenberg on board, it could influence team chemistry and racing strategies going forward. Given Verstappen’s dominance and the importance of having a strong, reliable team-mate, the German driver might offer qualities that complement the Dutchman’s style both on and off the track.
As Formula 1 evolves, such lineup decisions become critical for teams aiming to maintain or challenge their status at the top. Observers and fans will be watching whether Red Bull reassesses their options in the future, especially as Hulkenberg’s career gains new momentum.
