One of the biggest names in Formula One will leave the grid for 2023. Mick, son of 7 times champion Michael Schumacher, has been replaced by Haas F1 with Nico Hulkenberg for next season as the team have decided on an experienced lineup going forward. Haas made the announcement prior to the season finale so Hulkenberg can get time in the car during this weeks tyre test at the Gas Marina Circuit.
The German protege has failed to live up to expectations following his rookie year scoring points just twice in Austria and at Silverstone. Further, Schumacher has cost the team a substantial amount of their budget in 2022 because of the amount of damage he has inflicted on his car having made poor on track decisions.
Another Schumacher shunt
Mick was in the wars again at the season finale running into the rear of Nicholas Latifi’s car at turn 9 on lap 39. Whilst both drivers recovered to continue the poor judgement of the Haas driver was evident with the silly mistake.
The Haas driver’s final appearance saw him come home in P16 yet Schumacher felt after the chequered flag celebratory donuts were in order.
As the 23 year old pulled off onto a run off area to entertain the crowd he was reprimanded over team radio.
“Sorry, Mick, can you stop doing donuts please. Seriously. I’m sorry, Mick, but we just can’t. Sorry.”
In what may be seen as an act of defiance, Mick responded, “It’s all right. Love you too.”
Hulkenberg to tét for Haas
During the upcoming test the cars may rack up around 2 grand prix worth of mileage and clearly Haas are concerned about the reliability of their car.
When the heat of the moment had passed Mick paid tribute to the team who gave him his F1 opportunity on social media.
“The 2022 season has come to an end and with that a chapter as well,” said Schumacher.
“I want to take this moment to thank everyone at Haas F1 for all their hard work over the last two years.
“I’ve been able to meet incredible people and have built friendships I will cherish for life.
“But I also want to thank you guys out there, my followers, friends and obviously family, for supporting me through thick and thin. You motivate me day in and day out to push further and be a better person than I was yesterday.
“I don’t know yet what next year will bring but I know I’ll work harder than ever to come back stronger and be the best version of myself.”
Schumacher move to Mercedes
Schumacher has been linked with Mercedes for a reserve driver role for 2023 since Nyck de Vries left the Brackley based outfit to drive for the Red Bull stable.
“Well, the Schumacher family is closely related to Mercedes,” Wolff admitted. Of course Michael Schumacher came out of retirement to join the newly acquired Brawn team that was rebranded Mercedes in 2010.
“David Schumacher drives a Mercedes in the DTM and his father Ralf drove Mercedes for many years. Mick is German and suits the car incredibly well,” added Wolff.
“I think he deserves a place in Formula 1. Now we have to see if we can do it,” he concluded.
READ MORE: Peculiar admission by Verstappen
Mick has been handed a five-second time penalty ⏱️ https://t.co/s4MVkhyyaD
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) November 20, 2022
