Alonso praises Schumacher: 'Think he has a great future'

"I really like Mick. He's a very talented driver, but as a person, I really like him," said Alonso in an interview with RTL. Speaking to the German medium, the two-time world champion stated that he hopes Haas F1 manages to deliver a more competitive car to Schumacher in 2022. Last year the rookie could not really convince, but that had more to do with the material.

Alonso thinks Schumacher is now all set to flame out if Haas F1 has managed to take a step forward. "This year everything is new, the Haas could be a competitive car. If that happens, I think Mick will show more of what he is capable of. I think he has a great future and not because the Schumacher name is on his helmet."

Here and there, you'll still hear it dropped that Schumacher Jr. currently has a spot in Formula 1 because he's the son of record champion Michael Schumacher. Alonso, however, totally disagrees and points to the 22-year-old driver's achievements in Formula 2 and Formula 3. There he both became champions.

"Mick has proven in the different categories that he has the talent, the natural talent," said Alonso, who continued:"I think it would be very special for the sport to see another Schumacher on the podium, or finally winning a race, fighting for the championship. That's something great and a very nice story for F1. I hope it happens soon for him [Mick] and for the sport."

Schumacher, will have to fight for the points for his American employer. The F1 season starts for Schumacher for Wednesday afternoon. In the morning Mazepin will be in action on the first day of testing, then it's Schumacher's turn. Both drivers will also get behind the wheel for half a day on Thursday and Friday.