Wolff delighted to sign Schumacher: "Hungry to learn and improve"
F1 News
Toto Wolff is delighted to have Mick Schumacher in his Mercedes team for the 2023 Formula 1 season. Schumacher follows in his father's footsteps, who drove for Mercedes between 2010 and 2012. Wolff also confirms that Schumacher will be ready to race, should Lewis Hamilton or George Russell be unavailable.
When Hamilton tested positive for COVID-19 and therefore was forced to miss the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, Mercedes didn't choose their reserve driver. Instead, they opted for Russell who was driving for Williams during that season.
Reading and waiting
In the Mercedes announcement, Wolff commented that Schumacher will be ready and waiting should the opportunity arrive. He vows to put Schumacher in the car. "We also know that with two years of experience racing in Formula One under his belt, he will be ready to step into the car at short notice to replace either Lewis or George, should that need arise," Wolff said in the press release.
Schumacher has spent two full seasons in Formula 1 whilst driving for Haas. He was part of the Ferrari junior team but has now parted ways with the Italians. The German impressed during his first season by consistently beating then-teammate Nikita Mazepin, but he struggled against Kevin Magnussen in his second year at Haas.
Still, the 23-year-old has good experiance. He has scored 12 points in his F1 career so far. He achieved a sixth place in the 2022 Austrian Grand Prix which is down as his best finish. Wolff was keen to highlight his talent and approach to driving in Formula 1.
"Mick is a talented young driver and we're delighted to have him join the Team. He is a hard worker, has a calm and methodical approach and is still hungry to learn and improve as a driver. These are all important qualities, and we're excited for him to help us develop the W14," Wolff said.