Nico Hulkenberg achieved a monumental milestone by securing third place at the 2025 British Grand Prix, ending the longest podium drought in Formula 1 history after 239 race starts. The German driver’s intense emotion was evident in his post-race radio exchange with race engineer Steven Petrik, while his teammate Gabriel Bortoleto offered a heartfelt tribute that resonated deeply with fans and viewers alike. Hulkenberg’s podium breakthrough marked a significant highlight in his career and the Sauber team’s resurgence.
Teammate Gabriel Bortoleto’s Emotional Reaction
Struggling to process what Hulkenberg had just accomplished, Gabriel Bortoleto expressed his amazement immediately following the race. The Sauber driver said,
“I don’t think I can comprehend what we’ve just done, oh my God,”
capturing the overwhelming nature of the moment for the entire team. Soon after, Bortoleto’s radio message to Hulkenberg revealed the admiration and joy shared among teammates:
“Nico, it’s Gabi, you have no idea how happy I am for you, you’re a legend. Absolutely insane what you did today,”
he said, emphasizing the significance of the achievement within their close-knit squad.
A Remarkable Rise from Difficult Qualifying Conditions
Despite a disappointing qualifying session where Hulkenberg started in 19th place due to challenging wet conditions, he delivered a performance of relentless determination and skill. The chaotic weather and damp track created unpredictable race dynamics, but Hulkenberg capitalized on the opportunities, showcasing resilience that eventually earned him a well-deserved podium. His drive reflected not just personal triumph, but also the collective effort of the Sauber team, eager for success after a series of recent struggles.
Support and Praise from Fellow Drivers and Former Teammates
Hulkenberg’s podium finish drew admiration from many sides of the Formula 1 community, including former teammate Kevin Magnussen, who was present in the Sauber garage during the celebrations. Carlos Sainz praised Hulkenberg’s consistent high-level performances throughout his career, noting,
“For me he’s always been a top-five driver in the grid every time he’s been in F1. His level of talent and race execution is incredible.”
Multiple-time world champion Max Verstappen acknowledged the emotional significance of Hulkenberg finally reaching the podium after many close calls:
“It was very nice to see. Because when you’re in F1 for such a long time and you have not been on the podium, and being so close a few times, I think this is pretty special for him.”
Even a frustrated Oscar Piastri, who faced setbacks in his own race, joined in the celebrations. He declared,
“Congratulations to Nico, that’s the story of the day.”
The Broader Impact for Sauber and Upcoming Opportunities with Audi
Hulkenberg’s podium finish was more than a personal accomplishment; it marked Sauber’s first top-three result since Kamui Kobayashi’s third place at the 2012 Japanese Grand Prix. The team, having endured a challenging recent period, has shown remarkable progress in recent races. Bortoleto earned his first championship points the previous weekend in Austria, and since the Spanish Grand Prix, Hulkenberg has outscored both Red Bull drivers combined. Looking ahead, the prospects for Sauber appear stronger than ever with Audi’s upcoming 2026 takeover promising additional resources and growth potential.
The victorious moment culminated in jubilant celebrations within the Sauber garage, where team members and drivers shared champagne and danced in excitement.
Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley’s Reaction to a Historic Performance
Sauber team principal Jonathan Wheatley expressed his overwhelming pride following Hulkenberg’s breakthrough. Despite a disappointing result for rookie Bortoleto, Wheatley praised Hulkenberg’s performance as one of the finest he has witnessed at Silverstone. He remarked,
“One of the best drives I’ve seen at Silverstone,”
adding that it was exceptional among driving displays he has seen in motorsport.
Wheatley highlighted the long wait for this moment:
“It feels to me like he should have been getting them all his career. It seems to be the longest-waited podium ever. He showed his class today. He didn’t put a wheel wrong. And the team made all the right decisions in terms of strategy.”
This praise underscored both the driver’s skill and the team‘s flawless execution in bringing Hulkenberg to the podium.
