Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, might have had a different teammate at Red Bull in the past, as recent revelations suggest the team once considered Nico Hulkenberg. This prospect has resurfaced after Red Bull admitted to exploring Hulkenberg as a potential replacement for Alex Albon in 2020, sparking discussion on whether Hulkenberg remains a strong candidate to team up alongside Verstappen in the future. The conversation about Red Bull’s driver choices highlights the importance of finding the right partner to complement Verstappen’s talents.

How Red Bull Chose Sergio Perez Over Hulkenberg in 2020

After assessing options in 2020, Red Bull ultimately selected Sergio Perez as Verstappen’s teammate, a decision that helped the team secure back-to-back constructors’ championships in 2022 and 2023. Perez played a crucial role in these successes by winning five grands prix while driving for the Milton Keynes-based squad. Before joining Red Bull, Perez impressed at Racing Point, particularly with his first career victory at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, demonstrating his capability at high levels of Formula 1 competition.

At that same time, Hulkenberg was without a full-time seat but participated in two races for Racing Point as a stand-in driver, earning 10 points and proving his competitiveness. Subsequently, Hulkenberg secured a full-time role with Haas in 2023, where he steadily improved, catching the attention of Sauber, who brought him onboard ahead of their transition to Audi power units.

Ralf Schumacher’s Perspective on Hulkenberg’s Renewed Role in F1

Ralf Schumacher, a former F1 driver and analyst, recently shared his thoughts on Hulkenberg’s resurgence in Formula 1, suggesting that the German racer’s maturity and experience could make him an ideal teammate for Verstappen at Red Bull. Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Schumacher noted Hulkenberg’s personal growth and steady form:

“You have to be honest and say that Nico has also made his development like all of us in life,”

Schumacher said. He added that Hulkenberg, now 37 and a father, sees things with more calmness and balance.

“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.”

Could Hulkenberg Still Be a Strong Choice for Red Bull?

Schumacher and his co-host Peter Hardenacke touched on Red Bull’s former advisor Dr. Helmut Marko’s recent comments about Hulkenberg’s 2020 candidacy. Marko had confirmed that Hulkenberg was in talks with Red Bull before the team decided to hire Perez. Schumacher expressed a wish to see Hulkenberg race alongside Verstappen, believing their relationship could be positive:

“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.

“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.”

“I also think that because the two get along well, Max would have taken to him even more,”

Schumacher added, hinting that Verstappen’s chemistry with past teammates may influence his preferences.

Implications for Red Bull’s Future Team Line-Up

Given Hulkenberg’s steady form and renewed presence in Formula 1, his potential as Verstappen’s teammate remains an intriguing option for Red Bull. With Verstappen’s dominance in recent seasons, finding a supportive and skilled partner is crucial for maintaining their competitive edge. The possibility of Hulkenberg, a driver who combines experience with recent strong performances, joining the team could provide stability and mutual respect within the garage.

As Red Bull continues to assess its driver roster, past considerations regarding Hulkenberg underscore the significance of selecting teammates who complement Verstappen’s driving style and personality. Should Hulkenberg re-enter the conversation, his blend of maturity and proven competitiveness could shape the team’s strategy in upcoming seasons.