The legendary Schumacher name is returning to Mercedes with the announcement on Thursday that the Mercedes AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has signed Mick Schumacher as reserve driver for the 2023 Formula One season.
Schumacher, who will conduct an extensive simulator programme with the team and attend every race next season as part of the team joins the outfit that his father and F1 legend Michael Schumacher was a part of from 2010 to 2012.
Speaking about the news, Mick Schumacher said:
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 start, and I am just excited and grateful to Toto and everybody involved for putting their trust in me. F1 is such a fascinating world, and you never stop learning, so I look forward to absorbing more knowledge and putting in all my efforts for the benefit of the Mercedes team.
Schumacher will work closely with the Mercedes race drivers, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
Speaking about Schumacher’s arrival at the Brackley-based outfits, Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team said:
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. 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.
Markus Schäfer, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Non-Executive Chairman and CTO Mercedes-Benz AG
It’s great to have Mick on board. He has already demonstrated impressive talent on the track, and I look forward to watching him apply that to the development side, too. He has a great deal to offer in this important role. We have big plans for 2023 and Mick is integral to those as part of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 family.