Schumacher out as Haas turn to Hulkenberg now

MICK Schumacher is facing a fight to save his Formula One career after being dropped by the Haas team.

The son of the seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher will be replaced by Nico Hulkenberg for next year.

Hulkenberg, 35, has been without a full-time seat on the grid since 2019, but following a number of substitute appearances in recent seasons, will team up with Kevin Magnussen in 2023.

Schumacher, 23, followed in his father’s footsteps by landing an F1 drive in 2021. However, Haas have decided to part company with the German, 16th in the title standings and 13 points adrift of teammate Magnussen, after this weekend’s concluding round in Abu Dhabi.

“This is going to be my last race with Haas,” said Schumacher. “I don’t want to hide the fact that I am very disappointed about the decision.

“Nevertheless, I would like to thank both Haas and Ferrari for giving me this opportunity. The years together have helped me to mature both technically and personally. And especially when things got difficult, I realised how much I love this sport.

“It was at times bumpy, but I steadily improved, learned a lot and now know for sure that I deserve a place in Formula One. The subject is anything but closed for me. Setbacks only make you stronger.

“My fire burns for Formula One and I will fight hard to return to the starting grid.”

Haas’ announcement leaves only

Williams to confirm their driver lineup for next season. American Logan Sargeant is set to partner Alex Albon at Williams providing he secures the required superlicense points.

Schumacher could be handed a reprieve by Mercedes as the team’s reserve driver, but McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo is also in contention for the role with the Silver Arrows.

Hulkenberg, meanwhile, said: “I’m very happy to move into a fulltime race seat with Haas F1 team in 2023 – I feel like I never really left Formula One, and I’m excited to have the opportunity.”