F1 | Mick Schumacher: umpteenth (and final) rejection of his return to Formula 1

Mick Schumacher seems to be moving further away from a return to F1. After being linked to many of the seats that became available during this season, the latest and most recent refusal appears to be the definitive one. The German driver, currently racing in the WEC with Alpine (where he finished on the podium in Fuji), may have to give up all hope of returning to the top tier of motorsport.

A name too heavy to bear, a debut in the wrong environment, and a few too many mistakes: Mick Schumacher’s career in Formula 1 never really took off. Yet, the German seemed to have the right credentials: European F3 champion in 2018, Formula 2 champion in 2020, debut in Formula 1 in 2021 repeatedly outpacing his then-teammate Nikita Mazepin.

Sure, the Russian driver may not be the best benchmark, but you can’t say that talent is lacking in Michael’s son. He also didn’t perform poorly against Kevin Magnussen in 2022, his last year in Formula 1. However, too many accidents were cited, and Haas had enough, opting for the experience of Nico Hulkenberg instead. Since then, Mick’s name has been linked to various teams on the grid.

An agreement never materialized. Still a reserve driver for Mercedes, as well as an integral part of the Alpine family, Mick has watched as all types of drivers have been given chances ahead of him: from promising youngsters to pay drivers. His last shot for a seat in 2025 (and perhaps his last chance in his career) would have been Audi.

According to a report by BILD, Mattia Binotto has definitively closed even this opportunity: contrary to the predictions of recent weeks, it seems Valtteri Bottas is set to stay with the Ingolstadt team. And for young Mick, it seems there is nothing more to be done.