This outsider hopes to replace Hamilton: "My opportunity is there"

Lewis Hamilton's imminent switch to Ferrari has presented Mercedes with a dilemma. The German team assumed Hamilton and George Russell were under contract for several seasons, but a replacement for the former Briton must now be found. With the likes of Max Verstappen, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri already under contract elsewhere, the options are limited. An outsider, therefore, feels like he has a chance.

After leaving Haas F1, Mick Schumacher could not find a permanent seat in Formula 1. Thereupon, he was brought in by Mercedes as a test and reserve driver. In the months that followed, team boss Toto Wolff openly said several times that Schumacher junior definitely deserves a place in Formula 1. Fact is: even in 2024, it did not materialise.

Mick Schumacher wanted to get back to racing and, therefore, decided to switch to the World Endurance Championship (WEC). With Alpine, he will race the 24 Hours of Le Mans and more. In addition, the German will continue to work for Mercedes' F1 team, where he secretly hopes to move up to a regular driver role once Hamilton has closed the door behind him.

Speaking to RTL, Schumacher addressed Hamilton's soon-to-be vacant spot: "It is, of course, a position that brings a lot of pressure. But I feel I am ready for it. But it is not my decision. My opportunity is there. I don't know how big it is yet," Schumacher said.

The German is hugely surprised about Hamilton leaving. "I did not expect that. Everyone has to take the decision that is right for him," Schumacher responded.