Hulkenberg Almost Signed with Red Bull in 2021: Marko Reveals Details

Nico Hulkenberg was close to becoming Max Verstappen’s teammate in 2021, according to Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. Red Bull opted for Sergio Pérez, who ultimately accompanied Verstappen in his championship season. The decision came after Pérez’s outstanding victory at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. At that time, the team was looking to replace Alex Albon and had been impressed by Hulkenberg’s substitute appearances due to the Covid-19 situation.

At that moment he [Hulkenberg] was, I believe, a commentator on Servus TV, so a relationship already existed, and there were the beginnings of conversations.

Helmut Marko

Marko revealed that Pérez’s victory in the penultimate race of the season changed the course of decisions.

Max Verstappen and Nico Hulkenberg have a good relationship on and off the track. Pérez’s time at Red Bull lasted until last season, where he was replaced despite having achieved five victories for the team in four seasons.

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Hulkenberg returned to F1, first with Haas and then with Sauber this season. Hulkenberg, who has a good relationship with Verstappen, achieved his first podium at the British Grand Prix. Marko suggested that signing Hulkenberg might have been a better outcome for Red Bull, as they have struggled to find consistent results in the other car.

I think it would have been a good time, because the two get along very well, and yes, Hulkenberg is a safe bank for points, and in our car it would also have been in higher positions.

Helmut Marko