Mick Schumacher to Leave Mercedes Reserve Role

Mick Schumacher will step away from his Mercedes reserve driver position at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, opting to pursue a return to full-time racing. After two years of providing critical support to the team, Schumacher has decided to leave the sidelines and focus entirely on competitive driving.

From Haas to Mercedes

Schumacher made his Formula 1 debut with Haas in 2021, spending two seasons with the team before being replaced by Nico Hulkenberg. He then joined Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, the team where his father Michael Schumacher cemented his legacy, as a reserve driver. However, after two years in this role, Schumacher has opted to move on.

Why Is Mick Schumacher Leaving Mercedes?

In 2024, Schumacher also competed in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) as part of Alpine’s hypercar program, which reignited his passion for racing. Reflecting on his decision, Schumacher emphasized the need to return to the cockpit full-time:

“Watching these cars race and not sitting in the cockpit myself is tough. I want to get back to focusing 100% on racing. Ultimately, it is racing that gives you that feeling you love as a driver.”

Schumacher also expressed gratitude toward Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and the team for giving him the opportunity to deepen his understanding of the engineering and operational side of F1.

Praise for Schumacher

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff highlighted Schumacher’s professionalism, dedication, and value to the team over the past two seasons.

“Mick’s hard work, diligence, and determination in his role as reserve driver has been vital for the team over the past two years. From his work in the simulator to testing and trackside support, he has been exceptional.”

While Wolff acknowledged Schumacher’s contributions, he also recognized the driver’s desire to race again.

“Mick is, first and foremost, a racing driver. His performances in F1 and the WEC have shown he deserves to compete in top-tier championships. We wish him all the best in his next challenge.”

Who Will Replace Mick Schumacher at Mercedes?

With Schumacher’s departure, the Mercedes reserve driver role opens up for the 2025 season. Speculation has grown around Valtteri Bottas, who previously drove for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, scoring 10 race wins. While nothing is confirmed, Bottas has been linked to a potential return to his former team.

What’s Next for Mick Schumacher?

As Schumacher prepares to leave Mercedes, his focus will likely shift toward securing a full-time racing seat in either Formula 1 or another premier motorsport series. His performances in the WEC this year have demonstrated his capabilities as a versatile and high-caliber racer.

Mick Schumacher’s Return to Racing

Schumacher’s exit from Mercedes marks the beginning of a new chapter for the young driver. Fans will eagerly await news of his next move, with hopes that he will soon return to the pinnacle of motorsport as a competitive driver. Meanwhile, Mercedes faces the task of filling a crucial reserve driver role for the upcoming seasons.

Stay tuned for updates as the 2024 F1 season reaches its dramatic conclusion and Schumacher’s next steps become clear.