Mercedes-AMG Petronas signed Mick Schumacher as Reserve Driver for the upcoming season. “And we can’t stop smiling,” reads the social media post that made the announcement. But what will Mick do exactly for the team?
Mick Schumacher joined the team where his legendary father, Michael, finished his career, back in 2012. The 23-year old was inches away from being a spectator of Formula 1 in the upcoming season. A month ago, Haas dropped Schumacher junior, replacing him with Nick Hulkenberg. Mercedes might have pulled a publicity stunt, but one thing is sure. Mick Schumacher won’t be getting any Sunday action on the racetrack. The team has it covered with seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton and with George Russell, who is one year his senior. But he will be around just in case the team needs him to jump in.
“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 he is still hungry to learn and improve as a driver. 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,” says Mercedes-AMG Petronas Team Principal Toto Wolff.
We will though see Mick involved in the development of the car for the next season. Besides simulator work, he will be a part of the testing team. The W14 will be hitting the track in February, for the winter testing in Barcelona and the young German will be adding up laps. The team needs to get their act together, after a disappointing season in which Lewis Hamilton was unable to win a single race, while George Russell nailed one victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix..
“I am thrilled to be part of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team as their reserve driver for 2023, and I am committed to give it my all to contribute to their performance in this very competitive and professional environment. I take this as a new star,” says Mick Schumacher
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