Four-time F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has stated that Mick Schumacher deserves an F1 comeback with Williams.
After Logan Sargeant’s heavy crash during FP3 at Zandvoort, rumors surfaced that the American driver might be dropped ahead of this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix. Sargeant’s departure from Williams had already been hinted at, with the team announcing during the summer break that he would be replaced in 2025 by Carlos Sainz. However, his recent struggles could accelerate his exit, with former Haas driver Schumacher now being considered as a potential replacement.
Vettel has thrown his support behind the 25-year-old Schumacher to take Sargeant’s place.
“If it were my decision, I would tend to favour Mick,” Vettel told Bild. “Of course I’m a bit biased because he’s my friend, but in my eyes he’s the best solution. Mick has two years of experience in Formula 1 as a driver, has a very broad technical insight thanks to his current role [as Mercedes reserve driver]. He knows the Mercedes engine and has matured a lot as a person since leaving Haas.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has also shown support for Schumacher’s potential return to the grid. Meanwhile, Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson has emerged as another candidate, with Christian Horner indicating the team would consider loaning out the New Zealander.
Vettel believes Schumacher’s familiarity with most of the remaining tracks on the calendar, except Las Vegas, gives him an edge. “Mick is a good racing driver,” Vettel said. “He’s won Formula 2 and Formula 3 – that’s no mean feat. Now he has matured even more. I’m sure that he could impress at Williams. Especially as, unlike other candidates, he knows the Formula 1 driver line-up and the circuits. That’s a big advantage.”
Vettel hopes Schumacher gets the chance to prove himself. “I hope he gets the chance and can show the world what he’s capable of. Mick has been unfairly branded because of his two years at Haas. Of course, he made mistakes, but the car wasn’t competitive. Many people have the wrong image of him.”