source – Sportsstar
After two years with the team, Mercedes has revealed that Mick Schumacher will step down as the team’s backup driver at the end of 2024.
Mick Schumacher, the son of the legendary Michael Schumacher, has announced his decision to leave Mercedes at the conclusion of the 2024 season. This marks the end of a two-year tenure with the Brackley-based team, where he served as the reserve driver. Schumacher’s time with Mercedes has been instrumental in shaping his career and expanding his expertise, but the 25-year-old now looks set to chart a new path as he seeks a full-time return to competitive racing.
Schumacher joined Mercedes ahead of the 2023 Formula 1 season after a challenging two-year stint on the grid with Haas. His role with Mercedes has primarily been behind the scenes, involving intensive simulator work and providing feedback during tests and race weekends. These contributions, while often invisible to fans, have been essential to the Silver Arrows’ operations. Schumacher’s input has helped refine car performance, and his adaptability made him a trusted figure within the team.
During his time with Mercedes, Schumacher also diversified his racing commitments by competing for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). The German driver showcased his talent in endurance racing, earning praise for his performances and securing a spot as one of Alpine’s six drivers for their 2025 WEC campaign. This dual involvement highlights Schumacher’s determination to keep his racing skills sharp while embracing opportunities beyond Formula 1.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff expressed his gratitude for Schumacher’s contributions, emphasizing his dedication and impact on the team. Wolff’s praise was heartfelt, acknowledging the significant role Schumacher played in Mercedes’ simulator development, his testing efforts, and his presence trackside. “Mick’s hard work, diligence, and determination in his role as Reserve Driver has been vital for the team over the past two years,” said Wolff. “From day one, he fitted into the team with ease and has become an incredibly well-liked colleague for everyone at Brackley and Brixworth.”
Wolff also acknowledged Schumacher’s passion for racing, affirming that his future lies behind the wheel rather than on the sidelines. “Mick is first and foremost a racing driver. We have seen from both his time in F1 and this year with his performances in the World Endurance Championship that he is a racer of an incredibly high calibre and one that deserves to be competing in the very best championships,” Wolff added.
Schumacher, reflecting on his time with Mercedes, expressed his gratitude for the experience and the knowledge he gained during his tenure. He highlighted how his work with the team deepened his understanding of the engineering side of motorsport, an invaluable skill set for any driver. “I am grateful to Toto and the entire Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team for the insight I have gained over these two years,” Schumacher said. “They have undoubtedly made me a more experienced racing driver because I have got to know the engineering side better.”
However, Schumacher’s passion for racing remains unwavering, and he is eager to return to the cockpit as a full-time competitor. “Watching these cars race and not sitting in the cockpit myself is tough,” he admitted. “I want to get back to focusing 100% on racing. Ultimately, it is racing that you want to do as a driver; it is racing that gives you that feeling you love.”
As speculation around Schumacher’s next move intensifies, one thing is clear: he remains a driver in demand. Earlier this year, Sauber boss Mattia Binotto revealed that Schumacher had been considered for a seat alongside Nico Hulkenberg for the 2025 season. Although the team ultimately opted for rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, Schumacher’s name being in the mix underscores his reputation as a high-calibre talent.
Another potential opening could have been at Red Bull, where one seat for 2025 remains unconfirmed. However, that seat is widely expected to go to Liam Lawson, leaving Schumacher to explore opportunities outside of Formula 1. His commitment to Alpine’s WEC campaign for 2025 signals his intent to remain at the forefront of motorsport, showcasing his adaptability and resilience.
For Mick Schumacher, the end of his journey with Mercedes marks not a conclusion but a transition. The skills and experiences he gained during his reserve driver role have equipped him for the challenges ahead, whether they lie in Formula 1 or other top-tier racing series. As he bids farewell to Mercedes, Schumacher carries with him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the hopes of fans eager to see him back in competitive action.
The next chapter in Schumacher’s career promises to be as compelling as his journey so far. Whether it is in the endurance racing circuits with Alpine or a return to the F1 grid, one thing remains certain: Mick Schumacher’s racing story is far from over.
