Mick Schumacher's Return to F1 More Realistic Than Ever As Team Enters Sport

Alex Harrington | Aug 15, 2024

Oct 21, 2022; Austin, Texas, USA; Haas F1 Team driver Mick Schumacher (47) arrives for practice for the U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Mick Schumacher's hopes of a Formula 1 comeback are increasingly viable following Audi's entrance into F1 under new leadership, promising a shake-up on the grid. Schumacher, ousted from the Haas F1 Team about a year and a half ago, may find doors reopening as the racing landscape evolves.

After leaving Haas, Schumacher didn't stray from high-level motorsport, taking on roles as Mercedes' reserve driver and partaking in Alpine’s 2024 World Endurance Championship team. However, his aspirations to return to F1 are far from over, especially with Audi's recent investment into the sport as they take over Sauber.

Audi's F1 project sees new direction under Mattia Binotto, formerly of Ferrari, bringing a fresh perspective and potential opportunities. Binotto is meticulously reviewing options for 2025, with Schumacher reportedly among those being evaluated, according to Auto Motor Und Sport. Yet, securing a seat will be no small task; Mick is one of several candidates in a competitive roster that Audi is currently considering.

Although Schumacher initially appeared to be a suitable fit for Alpine's F1 lineup, rising stars like Jack Doohan have closed that door by becoming leading contenders for the vacant seat alongside Pierre Gasly. Similarly, despite a strong rapport with Mercedes' Toto Wolff, a placement there seems unlikely. Sauber, now under Audi’s ownership, had hinted at possibilities earlier in the year but shifted focus, now honing in on other talents like rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, fueled by his impressive Formula 2 performances.

Sauber's current lineup with Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu further complicates Schumacher's potential entry points into F1, indicating that neither driver is on the chopping block just yet.

Nico Hulkenberg is a confirmed deal for the German team, and a second German would seal the branding for Audi as they intend to make a mark. But after a post from Bottas to Instagram - a photo of an Audi R8 with his race number #77 on the side of the car - it could be that he is taking the seat alongside the experienced German. Or... it's a joke - something we do expect from the brilliantly funny Finn.

The overall scenario remains dynamic, with various factors influencing the eventual decision. Though the allure of an all-German lineup featuring Schumacher might sway Audi’s considerations.

The likelihood of Mick’s return to F1 is more tangible now than ever, but the driver market is complex.