F1 News: Mick Schumacher Confirmed To Mercedes As Reserve Driver for 2023 Season
Mick Schumacher, the son of legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher, will be joining Mercedes as a reserve driver for the 2023 season. This partnership has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks and months, as Schumacher looked to secure a seat on the grid for the upcoming season.
Haas F1’s decision to replace Schumacher with Nico Hulkenberg left the 23-year-old without a seat on the 2023 grid, forcing him to search for alternatives in the paddock. Whilst Schumacher cannot guarantee his return to Formula 1, he has spoken openly about his confidence that he can eventually earn a new contract and prove himself as a worthy addition to any team.
Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team boss, has been highly complimentary of Schumacher in recent months, expressing his desire to add the young driver to the team’s roster ahead of next season. Wolff believes that Schumacher has the potential to become a future star of the sport, and is eager to provide him with the support and opportunities he needs to develop his skills and experience.
This contract with Mercedes will allow Schumacher to remain active in the Formula 1 paddock, providing him with the chance to learn from and work alongside some of the best drivers and teams in the world. It will also give him the opportunity to explore other potential opportunities within the sport, as he looks to continue his journey towards becoming a full-time Formula 1 driver.
Mick Schumacher said the following about his new contract with the Lewis Hamilton-headed team:
“I am thrilled to be part of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team as their reserve driver for 2023, and I am committed to give it my all to contribute to their performance in this very competitive and professional environment.
“I take this as a new start, and I am just excited and grateful to Toto and everybody involved for putting their trust in me.
“F1 is such a fascinating world, and you never stop learning, so I look forward to absorbing more knowledge and putting in all my efforts for the benefit of the Mercedes team.
Toto Wolff also added to this triumphant day for the German driver:
“Mick is a talented young driver, and we’re delighted to have him join the Team. He is a hard worker, has a calm and methodical approach and is still hungry to learn and improve as a driver.
“These are all important qualities, and we’re excited for him to help us develop the W14.
“We also know that with two years of experience racing in Formula One under his belt, he will be ready to step into the car at short notice to replace either Lewis or George, should that need arise.”
We can’t wait to see what Mick can do with the like of the W14, a car that will hopefully improve heavily upon the likes of the W13. With him taking control of a machine much faster than the likes of the Haas of 2022, we may see more of his potential this coming year.
