Mick Schumacher’s time as a Formula 1 driver for now came to a disappointing end at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as the German crossed the finish line in 16th place.
The 23-year-old had been having a good weekend at the Yas Marina Circuit, after making it to Q2 in qualifying, unlike team-mate Kevin Magnussen.
Sunday proved challenging for the German, though, who would’ve likely finished a couple places higher had he not hit Nicholas Latifi at Turn Five.
Schumacher gently nudged Latifi late on during the season finale, which resulted in both drivers spinning majestically in-sync.
READ: Mattia Binotto makes Ferrari demand amid sacking reports
Unsurprisingly, the son of Michael Schumacher was awarded a five-second time penalty as a result; however, he still finished the race ahead of Magnussen.
He has, of course, been dropped by Haas for 2023, with his replacement Nico Hulkenberg having already driven for the Americans in the post-season test on Tuesday.
It’s been a challenging relationship for Schumacher to deal with, after coming under pressure from Haas owner Gene Haas and team boss Guenther Steiner following a large volume of unfair criticism.
A number of people, though, behind the driver, have been incredibly vocal about Haas this season, something ex-F1 driver Martin Brundle believes would’ve infuriated Haas.
Schumacher’s uncle, ex-F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, is someone in particular who has been very vocal about Haas’ handling of his nephew, something Brundle believes Haas would’ve become “fed up” with.
“I think the team were fed up of Mick’s entourage and all the pressures that came with that,” Brundle suggested to Sky Sports.
“He has been dropped by Ferrari as well, so it’s difficult times for him.”
Whilst Schumacher isn’t on the 2023 grid, he is aiming for a full-time return in 2024, although, he is looking set to remain in the paddock next season.
Mercedes are rumoured to be very interested in signing Schumacher as their reserve driver, something which would be a very strong move for the German driver given the support he’ll receive.
Brundle is confident that Schumacher will remain in the paddock and does think he’s “worthy” of a seat, but that a reserve role is best suited to him currently.
READ: Toto Wolff says Mercedes deserved failure, opens up on Michael Masi scandal
“Mick will pop up somewhere else,” Brundle continued.
“I think he’s worthy of a place on the grid – maybe in a reserve role, treading water.
“Haas want that experience and confidence rather than trying to bring young guns in, which hasn’t worked for them.”