Audi F1 continues to consider Mick Schumacher for its second racing seat, keeping possibilities open.
Sauber/Audi F1 Chief Mattia Binotto Confirms Mick Schumacher Still Under Consideration for 2025 and Possibly 2026 Vacant Seat
Mick Schumacher has repeatedly expressed his desire to return to F1, though he has not managed to secure a comeback since being dropped by Haas F1 at the end of 2022. The German driver has confirmed that Audi F1 is his Plan A, with ongoing discussions.
When asked about Schumacher’s hopes for an F1 return, Binotto, who previously worked with him at Ferrari when he was a junior driver, stated, “We are evaluating him; he is definitely on the list.”
“I have met and spoken with him. I have known him for a long time, having first encountered him at the Ferrari Driver Academy. I am familiar with his strengths and capabilities. He is one of the candidates we are considering.”
Audi is evaluating several candidates to partner Nico Hulkenberg, including current driver Valtteri Bottas and Williams’ rising star, Franco Colapinto.
Binotto reiterated that the Hinwil-based team will not rush its decision, weighing the importance of experience against the potential of promising new talent.
“We can afford the luxury of not rushing, as all other teams have settled their line-ups. There are two key options: on one hand, experience to set us on a path of growth. On the other, a talented young driver who could join us on our journey to the summit,” stated the Italian.
He acknowledged the need for a long-term focus as the Audi project will take time to bear fruit.
“We are at the beginning of the ascent. In front of us is Everest, and currently, we can only see its base. We are deciding which side to climb, but it’s crucial to establish a route. Compared to our competitors, we have about 400 fewer people.”
“We need to increase our staff to compete on the same level: these are not found in two days, and not necessarily in F1. Our choice is to invest in young talent, particularly among engineers.”
Does this set a finally realistic goal? Achieving podiums by 2026, as initially announced by Audi on their entry into F1, is unlikely.
“Many teams have taken years to reach the top. Jean Todt joined Maranello in 1993 and the first constructors’ title came in 1999. The same timing applies to Mercedes. It will take five to seven years. We hope to be competitive at the front by 2030.”
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Mick Schumacher Still in the Running for Audi F1 Seat Mick Schumacher Still in the Running for Audi F1 Seat
