Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has warned that Mick Schumacher might not be seen in the driver’s seat until 2025, with the opportunity to return in 2024 rapidly disappearing.
A former F2 an F3 champion, Schumacher struggled during his two years at Haas, suffering a series of unnecessary and costly crashes that ultimately led to his departure from the team in favour of Nico Hulkenberg.
During his time at Haas, Schumacher only secured two points finishes at Silverstone and Austria in 2022, finishing the season in 16th position in the Drivers’ Standings.
Schumacher has been working hard behind the scenes at Mercedes, supporting the development of the W14, but he might find it challenging to secure a full time seat on the grid next year, with few options set to become available.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
“It’s a difficult situation because the cockpits are taken with us and I would wish for Mick [Schumacher] to get a seat, he would have deserved it,” Wolff said.
“The situation in 2024 is so unfavourable. In 2025, a few doors will open again.
“We have to be careful because if we support Mick too much, then there are those who want to make it particularly difficult and then come crawling out of their holes.”
READ: Fernando Alonso on his chances of defeating Max Verstappen in Barcelona
Should Logan Sargeant fail to improve at Williams, Schumacher has been floated as a possible replacement for the American, although this hasn’t been confirmed by any involved party.
In a conversation with Sky Sports Germany, Wolff floated handing Schumacher the seat, as he believes that the German is capable of delivering strong performances should he be handed a competitive car.
Schumacher might be out of luck here too though, as the American might be given a reprieve, being allowed a full season to settle into the seat before any decision is taken over whether he is the right person to drive for Williams.