Nico Hulkenberg’s long-awaited Formula 1 podium finally became reality at the 2025 British Grand Prix, and his sensational performance has reignited debate about whether Red Bull missed a golden opportunity to sign him years ago. Starting 19th on the grid in rain-soaked conditions at Silverstone, the Sauber driver executed a flawless strategy and showcased clinical overtakes, ultimately finishing P3—his first-ever F1 podium after 239 race starts.
Christian Horner responds — but avoids the core question
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, however, wasn't ready to be drawn into speculation when asked whether the team had made a mistake by not signing Hulkenberg when the opportunity arose.
“I have to congratulate Nico Hulkenberg, though, after all these years of trying to get a podium. Today, it’s good to see him get a podium,” Horner said. But when directly asked if Red Bull should’ve signed him, he dodged the question: “Look, I was very pleased for him to get the podium,” he added.
The contrast between Hulkenberg’s impressive drive and the underwhelming performance of Red Bull-backed Yuki Tsunoda—who finished 15th despite starting eight places ahead—did not go unnoticed. Horner cited Tsunoda’s penalty and wet conditions but avoided making any comparison to Hulkenberg’s achievement.
Helmut Marko reflects on the decision not to sign Nico Hulkenberg
Red Bull Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko has previously acknowledged that Hulkenberg was a serious contender for the 2021 seat. However, Sergio Perez’s shock win at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix tilted the decision in his favor.
“Maybe it’s a good thing that he [Nico Hulkenberg] didn’t get the seat next to Max anyway,” Marko told Sky Deutschland. “He was in discussions. Then Perez won the race in Bahrain, which was just in the decision-making phase and then tipped the scales.”
Despite the missed opportunity, Marko added, “I have to say, he did very well after his unexpected comeback.”
Max Verstappen shows his support
Max Verstappen, who shares a personal friendship with Hulkenberg, was among the first to congratulate him. “
Yeah, amazing! That’s the positive thing of the day! I am so happy for him that he got the podium, yeah, so nice to see,” Verstappen told Viaplay. Hulkenberg later said, “Max was the first guy when I got out of the car. We go way back from karting days… A great human being.”
No Red Bull switch on the horizon
While Nico Hulkenberg’s Silverstone masterclass has turned heads across the paddock, he won’t be donning Red Bull colors anytime soon. The 37-year-old has already committed to a multi-year deal with Sauber, which will transition into Audi’s factory F1 team from 2026.
The Silverstone result not only marked a personal triumph but also propelled Sauber from ninth to sixth in the Constructors’ Championship. Hulkenberg now sits ninth in the Drivers’ standings, ahead of some factory-backed competitors.