Mick Schumacher watched as Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez were appointed as Cadillac drivers, once again missing out on an F1 seat. The German now explains how far talks with the new Cadillac F1 team had progressed and honestly admits that missing out on the seat was a difficult period for him. However, Schumacher understands the decision of the American team.
Mick Schumacher drove for Haas in Formula 1 in 2021 and 2022. After leaving the team, the German was unable to secure a new seat in the premier class, although his ambition to return always remained. Last year, he held talks with the new Cadillac F1 team about a possible comeback, but the team ultimately chose Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez. “The information I had until almost the end was that we were still in contention for the Cadillac seat. In the end, they chose a different direction, and that is completely justified,” Schumacher said during the press conference where he confirmed his move to IndyCar.
“The whole situation has been difficult in some ways, but I also understand that they ultimately chose a different direction,” Schumacher further explains. “It forced me to decide for myself: do I want to keep fighting for a return to the F1 grid, or do I want to race in a place where I really enjoy it? For me, that’s with the single-seaters, and fortunately a great opportunity came along. I’m super happy to be here in IndyCar now.”
Schumacher Keeps Hope Alive
Although Schumacher has not been active in Formula 1 since losing his Haas seat at the end of 2022 and is now even leaving European motorsport, he does not see his move to IndyCar as the end of his F1 dream. “The world of Formula 1 is of course unique and special, but IndyCar is also single-seater racing,” emphasizes the 26-year-old. “There are plenty of great drivers who have stayed connected to F1 teams for good reasons, so I don’t see why my move to IndyCar would close that door.”
