Little chance for Hulkenberg at Haas: ''I don't see that happening''

Ralf Schumacher does not see Nico Hulkenberg becoming his nephew's teammate. Hulkenberg was rumoured as Nikita Mazepin's replacement, but probably doesn't stand much of a chance.

For the 2022 Formula 1 season, Haas must look for a new driver. Mick Schumacher remains active for the team, but Nikita Mazepin, along with his sponsor, has been sidelined by the war in Ukraine. Pietro Fittipaldi will replace the Russian in Bahrain during the winter test, but Gene Haas has already said that the team would rather have someone with more experience for the rest of the season.

''I can only hope that Mick gets a driver next to him with whom he can get more done, a driver who fits into the team. A driver from whom he can learn would be good for Mick,'' Ralf says of his nephew at Speedweek.com.

Fittipaldi was seen as the big favourite for the seat, but Emerson's grandson doesn't have much F1 experience nor is he seen as the all-time great talent. Reigning Formula 2 champion, Oscar Piastri, is not a candidate according to his management and Hulkenberg is also not a realistic option according to Ralf: ''I don't see that happening.''

Antonio Giovinazzi is the man likely to take Mazepin's place at Haas. The Italian had to make way for Guanyu Zhou at Alfa Romeo at the end of 2021 and has made the move to Formula E. The Ferrari-trained talent has the necessary F1 experience that Haas is looking for and could possibly also provide a discount on Ferrari engines. Usually, one and one is two in Formula One.