Ex-Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel assesses Mick Schumacher’s chances of getting a place on the 2024 grid as “difficult”.
Schumacher was dropped by Haas after two seasons at the end of 2022 in favour of Nico Hulkenberg, ending up at Mercedes in a reserve driver role for this year.
Although the German has repeatedly expressed his intention to return to a full-time drive next year, only four seats remain available for next year at this stage.
Vettel, who regularly acted as a mentor for Schumacher in the latter stages of his F1 career, acknowledges the challenge his countryman has in securing a coveted spot.
“The situation is difficult at the moment,” Vettel told Sky Germany at Goodwood last weekend.
“There is perhaps still a single cockpit and at the moment it is not that easy or rather difficult to get in there and slide in.
“But there is always some possibility.
“I think it’s important that things continue in a certain way for him next year. That he continues to work on the second chance.”
The four-time World Champion also contends that Schumacher becoming a permanent fixture in the F1 scene again is “essential” for the German market.
“From a German perspective it’s essential, it’s not just the biggest young talent, but perhaps even the only one at the moment.”
AlphaTauri remains the only side yet to confirm either of its drivers for 2024. However, as a Red Bull-affiliated team, Schumacher is unlikely to be under consideration.
Furthermore, the Faenza side’s outgoing Team Principal Franz Tost revealed earlier this year that his attempts to bring the ex-Ferrari-associated driver on board were rebuffed by Red Bull advisor Marko.
Meanwhile, Williams is set to retain Logan Sargeant for another season alongside Alex Albon, despite the American newcomer encountering a rough rookie campaign.
That only leaves a solitary position at Alfa Romeo, who Schumacher has recently been heavily linked with in recent months.
The Sauber-owned team will transition into a works Audi entry from 2026 and the Volkswagen CEO has previously outlined his preference for a German driver.
The current incumbent of the seat next to Valtteri Bottas, who retains a multi-year deal, is Zhou Guanyu, but it is rumoured the Chinese racer could come under pressure amid deficient funds.
Reigning Formula 2 champion and Aston Martin reserve driver Felipe Drugovich is another name that has been linked with the Hinwil-based outfit’s second seat, while Sauber Academy member Theo Pourchaire is also highly likely to be in the running.
