Report: Mick Schumacher explains crucial reasons for leaving Mercedes as it has been ‘tough’ as the team’s reserve driver

Mercedes has announced that Mick Schumacher will leave the team at the end of the 2024 season, concluding his two-year tenure as a reserve driver. The 25-year-old, son of F1 legend Michael Schumacher, joined Mercedes in 2023 after losing his seat with Haas.

Schumacher’s F1 career began with Haas, where he raced in 2021 and 2022. Despite a challenging rookie season with no points and a 19th-place finish in the standings, he improved in 2022, scoring 12 points to place 16th. He was previously affiliated with Ferrari, having joined their driver academy in 2019, but the partnership ended in late 2022. Soon after, Mercedes signed him as their reserve driver.

Mercedes confirmed that Schumacher chose to step away from his role. Team principal Toto Wolff praised his contributions, highlighting his work in the simulator, testing, and at the track. Wolff remarked, “Mick is first and foremost a racing driver… He deserves to be competing in the best championships.” 

Schumacher expressed gratitude for his time with Mercedes, noting how it enhanced his understanding of engineering and prepared him for future challenges. However, he admitted that watching races from the sidelines had been difficult, and he is eager to refocus on racing full-time.

During his time with Mercedes, Schumacher also competed in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine, earning their first podium in Japan. His career journey mirrors his father’s in many ways, though Michael Schumacher has been out of the public eye since a serious skiing accident in 2013.

Coincidentally, Mick’s departure aligns with Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, signaling a major shift in Mercedes’ lineup heading into the 2025 season. Mick’s next steps remain unconfirmed, but he appears determined to return to competitive racing.