Amidst rumours and speculation surrounding his future in motorsport, Mick Schumacher found himself having to clarify that a confirmed move to world endurance sportscar racing in 2024 has not been set in stone.
Alpine’s interim team boss, Bruno Famin, confirmed discussions with the 24-year-old Mercedes reserve driver regarding a potential deal that would see Schumacher race in the new Alpine hypercar in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and at Le Mans.
Famin stated at Suzuka, “We are talking with Mick about this opportunity.
“It would be a good opportunity for both parties, but for the time being, we are just talking, and hopefully, we will organise a test soon.”
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However, amidst these talks, there were persistent rumours circulating in the Japanese Grand Prix paddock on Sunday that a deal had already been finalised.
Austrian broadcaster ORF confronted Mick Schumacher with the news, claiming that the Alpine contract was “now official.”
Schumacher, appearing somewhat puzzled, responded after a momentary pause, saying, “Uh – nothing is official.”
When asked about when he could make it official, Schumacher asserted, “Well, I’ll share that from my side.
“It will probably take a while until then.
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“But of course, I have to look at my options, and of course, there are discussions.”
Schumacher was initially hoping to return to the Formula 1 grid in 2024 but, with little movement in the driver market, it has proved challenging for him to find a seat.
It was initially suggested he could make the move to Williams but, with the team principal James Vowles stating he will stick with Logan Sargeant, that door has closed.