F1 News: Mick Schumacher Indicates Driver "Changes" And Two Retirements For 2024
Mercedes reserve driver Mick Schumacher has hinted at some significant driver shake-ups for 2024, hinting at both intra-team shifts within F1 and the retirement of two drivers from the sport.
In recent days, Formula 1 has been shaken by significant developments. First, there was the rejection of Andretti Cadillac's entry into the grid until 2028. Then, the game-changing news of Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari next year further stirred the F1 world.
Currently, Schumacher hints at Formula 1 experiencing the retirement of two drivers this year, along with other anticipated changes. Despite committing to full-time responsibilities with Alpine in the World Endurance Championship, the young driver remains hopeful of securing racing opportunities in Formula 1 down the line. Could he be hinting at changes in the driver market that route him back into the premier class of motorsport?
Schumacher's WEC contract with Alpine allows him to continue reserve driver duties with Mercedes whenever required. Though the Brackley outfit has not revealed Hamilton's replacement for 2025, it remains to be seen if the team would opt for someone more seasoned like Fernando Alonso, or someone as young as Schumacher.
However, he hasn't participated in a Formula 1 Grand Prix since the 2022 season, when he left Haas. Speaking of expected changes in Formula 1, Schumacher told Sport Bild:
“It could play into my hands that the driver market is already quite active and that it will continue to increase in the coming months.
“A lot will happen.
“There will not only be changes in the teams’ cockpits, but possibly also the end for two drivers of their careers.”
The 24-year-old driver believes he has the skillset required to race in Formula 1, a trait that was proved through his Formula 2, 3, and 4 days. He said:
“I know I have the skills for it. I’m good enough,” he added. “I showed that in Formula 4, Formula 3 and Formula 2.
“The fact that I won races and championships is quickly forgotten. I proved that in addition to driving, I can also handle pressure. And that’s not different in Formula 1.”