Esteban Ocon, a Mercedes reserve driver who is rumored to replace Lewis Hamilton following his departure for Ferrari, feels that Mick Schumacher deserves another opportunity in Formula 1. Schumacher’s two-year tenure at Haas was unsuccessful.
Having partnered Kevin Magnussen for the Dane’s last-minute comeback to the team in 2022, Schumacher failed to build on a fairly promising first season in Formula One and finished the season with fewer than half of Magnussen’s points.
In addition, he experienced a number of serious and well-publicized collisions. However, following a year-long absence at Brackley, he will now split his time between Mercedes testing and a full-time Alpine drive in vehicle #36 in the World Endurance Championship.
At Alpine’s F1 and WEC debut, Ocon responded to the media, including Total-Motorsport.com, “Yes.” It is certain that he merits a spot in Formula 1. He has demonstrated that he is a Formula 3 and Formula 2 champion.
“He has driven the midfield car for two years; you need time to establish yourself in Formula One and acquire knowledge, and he most definitely deserves a seat in the sport.” He truly deserves it, because he is one of the most gifted drivers in the world.
While Schumacher’s junior record demonstrated a tendency to improve in a series’ sophomore year, he was largely squandered in an uncompetitive car with Mazepin during his first year at Haas, finishing 12th in both European F3 and F2 before winning both championships the following year.
Despite an expensive collision at Suzuka, he continued to improve with Magnussen in the second half of 2022, but, by then, his relationship with the team principal, Guenther Steiner, had already worsened.
In order to sign with Mercedes, Schumacher also severed his long-standing relationship with the Ferrari Driver Academy; however, by joining Alpine, he is also representing his father Michael’s third previous team.
Ocon continued, “First and foremost, it’s fantastic for the Alpine Endurance team.” “Mick is a very experienced and knowledgeable driver who possesses exceptional driving ability overall. I believe he will be a great asset to the team.”
“I sincerely hope they win Le Mans this year; I’ll be rooting for them and wanting to see Mick back in Formula One soon.”
