It is still unclear whether Mick Schumacher has a future in Formula 1 and what it might look like. Much also depends on Daniel Ricciardo, whose future is now once again the subject of confusion. That said, the evidence appears to say Ricciardo is back at Red Bull, and Mick Schumacher looks to be a reserve driver for Mercedes.
The Brazilian TV network “Band” initially reported on Saturday that Ricciardo is about to return to Red Bull, where the Australian is to be presented as the new reserve driver in the near future. The network did not give any details about the presumed return.
Advanced talks with Red Bull confirms Marko
ESPN journalist Nate Saunders, however, contradicted the report a little later. No agreement had yet been reached between Red Bull and Ricciardo, but according to Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko they are in advanced talks with Daniel Ricciardo.
Ricciardo will leave McLaren at the end of the year and was actually planning to join the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team as a replacement driver. The Germans, however, will probably bring their compatriot Mick Schumacher into the team, which is why the door seems to be closing for “Danny Ric” there.
Now Marko has confirmed in Interlagos, with a smile on his face, that Oracle Red Bull Racing is in contact with Ricciardo. “Yes, we are talking. I can’t say more about that yet,” Marko said.
So it can be assumed that the “bulls” will bring back their ex-driver and give him a contract as a replacement for Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez should one fall foul of illness, injury or a race ban.
Schumacher at Mercedes
On Friday, “auto, motor und sport” wrote that Mick was a hot contender for the role of reserve driver at the Silver Arrows alongside Ricciardo. The 23-year-old would even become the team’s “first choice” should Daniel Ricciardo turn down the job, it said. RTL/ntv Formula 1 expert Felix Görner was able to confirm the information.
Other sources close to this website have confirmed that Mick is in the hot seat for Mercedes. Silly season isn’t quite done yet.
READ MORE F1 NEWS: Schumacher: Williams & Haas react in Brazil
I think Riccardo will excel at Red Bull if called up. Perhaps RB is thinking ahead to the end of Perez’s contract. Boo hoo me all you want, but both years Riccardo was superior on points to Max and their poles were 21-22 in Max’s favor. I don’t think Riccardo has forgotten how to drive a superior car and after Max’s antics today there is probably a craw in Checo’s cap.