Mick Schumacher might just be on the verge of an exciting comeback in Formula 1. Here’s what you need to know about his potential return:
- Schumacher’s name is surfacing in conversations about Audi’s driver lineup for 2025.
- Audi’s management shuffle, including the addition of Mattia Binotto, could favor Schumacher.
- Carlos Sainz announced his move to Williams, opening up possibilities at Audi.
- Schumacher’s prior relationship with Binotto seems to bolster his chances.
- Audi sees Schumacher as a ‘low-risk’ option who could be celebrated for a second chance.
Mick Schumacher has been on the sidelines since his departure from Haas at the end of 2022, but his name is now being mentioned in connection with Audi’s lineup for 2025. A recent report suggests that Audi, preparing for the new F1 regulations in 2026, is considering Schumacher for a spot, given the current search for a team-mate for Nico Hulkenberg.
The German manufacturer had initially aimed to sign outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, who recently announced his move to Williams for 2025. This left Audi in a bind, having also lost their second-choice, Esteban Ocon, to Haas. Audi’s new direction under former Ferrari chief Mattia Binotto could now favor Schumacher, given their past association.
Binotto, now Audi’s chief operating and technical officer, has a history with Schumacher from his time at Ferrari. Schumacher won the F2 title in 2020 under Binotto’s watch before joining Haas in 2021. Current discussions underscore the potential of Schumacher being seen as a viable candidate for Audi’s team, especially given the decision to appoint Jonathan Wheatley as team principal starting July 2025.
Schumacher parted ways with Ferrari at the end of 2022, coinciding with Binotto’s exit. Since then, he has taken on the role of Mercedes reserve driver while competing in Alpine’s World Endurance Championship. The combination of Binotto’s influence and the need for a dependable driver makes Schumacher a practical choice for Audi.
Furthermore, Audi’s consideration of Schumacher as a ‘low-risk’ candidate is highlighted by his prior tests with Sauber (now Audi) in 2019, suggesting a familiarity that could be beneficial. The German driver could also help Audi gain acclaim for giving him another chance in F1 after his tough stint with Haas.
In addition to Schumacher, reigning IndyCar champion Alex Palou and Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson are also on Audi’s radar. Lawson, who shined during a five-race stint for an injured Daniel Ricciardo, has a clause in his contract that might allow him to leave Red Bull if not promoted to a permanent seat by September. This ongoing speculation keeps the F1 community buzzing about the final driver choices for Audi.
All eyes are now on Audi to see if Mick Schumacher will indeed secure his spot for 2025.
