F1. Orphaned of a titular seat in Formula 1, Mick Schumacher has decided to join Alpine in endurance racing while maintaining his role as a reserve driver at Mercedes. The German remains hopeful of finding a spot on the grid in 2025, taking advantage of the numerous expiring contracts.
Mick Schumacher is taking on additional roles in 2024. The German driver is continuing for a second season with Mercedes as a reserve driver. In addition to that, the former Haas contractual will juggle this role by participating in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine
After losing his seat as a starter in Ayao Komtasu’s team in 2022, the son of the Red Baron had to settle for a reserve position at Mercedes. Throughout this season, he didn’t have the opportunity to take control of one of the two black cars. For the 2024 season, Mick Schumacher was hoping to find an available spot, however, all the teams decided to keep their current drivers.
Formula 1 being jammed and Formula E not attractive to him at all, the former Ferrari program driver turned to Alpine in endurance racing. In October, Mick Schumacher tested the LMDh, before being recruited among the six athletes who will represent Alpine in 2024.
« Bruno came to see me very early last year to ask if I would like to join the program, said the 24-year-old athlete during the inauguration of the A524. « Obviously, at the time, I was still watching a lot of Formula 1 and trying to go in that direction, but that door didn’t open for me. It was a great opportunity for me to get into endurance racing and compete again, but also at the same time be very close to Formula 1. It really ignited this flame in me to want to come and race here, so I’m happy to be here and I suppose the feeling is mutual. »
Take advantage of walking opportunities for 2025.
During his speech at the ceremony, Mick Schumacher mentioned the surprise transfer of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari in 2025. The former teammate of Kevin Magnussen regularly interacts with the British driver.
« Obviously, it shocked everyone, including myself,” the reserve driver admitted. « But on the other hand, everyone has to do what they think is right. The transfer season is going to be eventful, and I can’t wait to see it. My eyes are always fixed on Formula 1. There is now a lot of excitement because one or two opportunities may arise.”
As a reserve pilot, Mick Schumacher regularly works with the team. He could observe the direct consequences, if not benefit from them. However, the endurance driver denied monitoring the position left vacant by Lewis Hamilton.
“Regarding this subject, I haven’t really thought much about it,” he asserted. “We are obviously here with Alpine for the car launch. We will wait and see what happens in the coming weeks.”
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