Mick Schumacher, the current reserve driver for Mercedes, remains tight-lipped about his plans for the 2024 Formula 1 season.
While he had initially aspired to make a racing grid return next year, recent developments have suggested that he might continue in his reserve role at Mercedes, concurrently participating in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine.
Two weeks ago, the 24-year-old son of F1 legend Michael Schumacher refuted claims that the Alpine-Le Mans deal had been finalised.
Schumacher now acknowledges that work is ongoing behind the scenes to shape his future endeavours.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
“In the background, there’s work on my own plans for next year,” Schumacher disclosed.
“These are still evolving, and it’s just a matter of trying to understand exactly which direction we can go in, how to fit in the commitments and things like that.
“It just takes time,” he explained, offering insights into the complexity of decision-making at this juncture.
Moreover, Schumacher hinted that the prospective Alpine deal would not clash with his reserve role at Mercedes for the 2024 season.
He spoke of his curiosity about getting to know the Mercedes team better and integrating himself within it.
“It’s been good to get to know the people that worked with my dad and all the new colleagues too,” Schumacher said, underscoring the importance of building relationships within the team.
Schumacher reaffirmed his commitment to Mercedes for the remainder of the current season.
He disclosed his intention to be present at every race, prepared to step in if Lewis Hamilton or George Russell were unable to continue.
Additionally, he remains actively involved in the development of the car for the 2024 season.
“The development of W15 started quite a while ago,” Schumacher revealed, shedding light on the team’s forward-looking efforts.
READ: Mercedes warn Lewis Hamilton about floor upgrade
“It’s really an ongoing progress.
“Everything we learn from this year’s car along the way feeds into next year.
“And we’ve learned a great deal.”