Hulkenberg makes Sauber move

As expected Nico Hulkenberg has decided to leave the Force India team to move to Sauber.

The 25-year-old German driver has been caught up in a wave of Formula One musical chairs and his move has been confirmed today.

Hulkenberg had been heavily linked with a move to Sauber following Sergio Perez’s move from Sauber to McLaren to replace Lewis Hamilton who had decided to leave McLaren for Mercedes…which in turn forced Michael Schumacher into retirement…..again.

The deal leaves Force India with an available seat for 2013, which could be of interest to many drivers in and around Formula One, whilst Sauber themselves are still to decide on the future of Kamui Kobayashi.

Mexican test driver Esteban Gutierrez has been heavily linked with taking the seat of his fellow countryman to partner Hulkenberg, but as yet, there has been no official announcement from the team.

‘We’ve been observing Nico for some time now and his performances have been very persuasive, That was the case in GP2 and has continued into Formula 1. An obvious highlight was how he scored pole at Interlagos in 2010 despite the most challenging external conditions. He clearly showed that he can seize the chance if it arises. Sauber Team Principal Monisha Kaltenborn told Sky Sports.

‘But high spots like that are one thing; systematic teamwork is another – and on that score I have confidence in Nico too. I’m sure he will fit in very well with the Sauber F1 Team. We look forward to working together with him.’

Hulkenberg added: ‘The Sauber F1 Team is currently going through a very positive development and I’m certain that together we can achieve a lot.