Red Bull's Marko Considers Hülkenberg for 2014 F1 Drive
Helmut Marko has identified Nico Hülkenberg as a possible successor to Mark Webber at Red Bull Racing for the 2014 Formula One season, amid questions over Webber's future.
Helmut Marko has named Nico Hülkenberg as a candidate for Red Bull Racing's 2014 Formula One line-up, as the team evaluates options to replace Mark Webber after his contract expires at the end of the 2013 season.
Webber, who turns 37 in 2013, was given only a single-year contract extension by Red Bull for his seventh season with the team. This short-term deal, coupled with criticism from Marko over Webber's performance and team play at the 2012 Interlagos finale, has fuelled speculation about a change for 2014. Marko publicly stated that Webber did not display the level of cooperation expected from a teammate while Sebastian Vettel was fighting for the title against Fernando Alonso.
While Red Bull has traditionally looked to its Toro Rosso junior team for talent, with Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne both in the frame, Marko has made it clear that their promotion depends on their 2013 performances. If neither Ricciardo nor Vergne meets expectations, Hülkenberg is seen as a strong alternative.
Hülkenberg's standing and contract situation
Hülkenberg, who impressed in the second half of the 2012 season with Force India, signed a one-year contract with Sauber for 2013. This short-term deal has left him available for moves in 2014, making him a target for both Red Bull and Ferrari, who may also be considering changes depending on Felipe Massa's future. Marko revealed that Hülkenberg had previously been considered for Red Bull's junior programme, but sponsorship commitments prevented a deal at the time.
The German driver's strong finish to 2012, including scoring points in five of the last six races, has raised his profile in the paddock. His single-year deal at Sauber is interpreted by some as a strategic move, keeping options open for a top seat in 2014.
Competition for the 2014 Red Bull seat
Red Bull's succession plan remains focused on its young drivers, but Hülkenberg's availability and proven ability have made him a serious contender. Ricciardo and Vergne, both entering their second full seasons with Toro Rosso in 2013, must demonstrate they are ready for promotion. If they do not, the team may look outside its own ranks for the first time since Sebastian Vettel's rise to the main squad.
- Mark Webber: Current Red Bull driver, contract ends 2013.
- Nico Hülkenberg: Sauber driver in 2013, available for 2014.
- Daniel Ricciardo: Toro Rosso driver, under evaluation.
- Jean-Eric Vergne: Toro Rosso driver, under evaluation.
With Ferrari also monitoring Hülkenberg for a possible 2014 seat, competition for his signature could be intense. Red Bull's decision will depend on both internal and external performances throughout the 2013 season.
For more on Red Bull's driver strategy in later years, seeMarko signals Red Bull F1 seat for Verstappen in 2017
