Mick Schumacher is now left with only one realistic hope for a full-time F1 return in 2024 with Williams representing the only possible destination for the German driver. Even then, there are complications for the former Haas driver.
The 24-year-old has been impressing Mercedes bosses during his time as test and reserve driver this season, stepping into the role after his two-year stint with Haas came to a disappointing end at the climax of the 2022 season.
Mick, who is the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, has built a close relationship with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff since joining the team, and that connection could prove to be a pivotal factor in securing his F1 return.
However, after Thursday’s announcement from Haas revealing that Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg have both signed one-year contract extensions with the team, it is clear that time is running out for Schumacher to secure his place on the grid for 2024.
Click here to join our WhatsApp community to be the first to receive breaking and exclusive F1 news.
Don’t miss… Inside Mick Schumacher’s role as Lewis Hamilton and George Russell understudy[LATEST]
With a return to Haas out of the question from the beginning, Schumacher’s hopes of a second shot at the big time were limited to three realistic options.
AlphaTauri had shown some interest in signing Schumacher ahead of the 2023 season. The Red Bull feeder team were weighing up moves for the German driver, along with IndyCar prospect Colton Herta and Formula E world champion Nyck de Vries, ultimately deciding to select the latter.
De Vries’ time with the team was ill-fated, but with Daniel Ricciardo now back involved and occupying the second seat alongside Yuki Tsunoda, the door looks to have closed for Schumacher at Faenza.
More F1…
Lando Norris taken aback as McLaren boss Zak Brown takes savage Lance Stroll dig[DRAMA]
Max Verstappen puts pressure on FIA as Red Bull star sparks new retirement fears[OPINION]
Max Verstappen’s 2024 team-mate confirmed as Felipe Massa issued warning[NEWS]
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Another touted option for Schumacher is the Alfa Romeo team. Set to be rebranded back to Sauber next season ahead of Audi’s 2026 arrival, the German manufacturer’s presence on the grid could give the 24-year-old a shot at returning to the grid in a few years.
Unfortunately for the German driver, this move is much more likely to take place in 2025 or 2026, with Zhou Guanyu expected to stay with the team for another season and junior driver Theo Pourchaire also higher up in the pecking order should they choose to move on.
This, then, leaves only Williams for Schumacher. Logan Sargeant’s rookie season has been unspectacular at best, and the team will continue to wait before deciding his fate for 2024.
Toto’s connection with team principal James Vowles will play into Schumacher’s favour in this case, but it is still expected that the American rookie can earn a new deal with some improved performances after the summer break.
Source: Read Full Article