Mick Schumacher, the son of legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher, may be gearing up for a major comeback—both on and off the track. The young German racer, who shares a close bond with four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, could see his racing career reignited with a potential F1 seat at Sauber in 2025.
Vettel, who had been a mentor to Schumacher during his tough stint with Haas F1 in 2021 and 2022, remains a steadfast supporter. The duo is set to reunite on the international stage at the 2025 Race of Champions (ROC), with Vettel expressing excitement about partnering with Schumacher Jr. once again. The event, which pits some of the world’s top racing and rally drivers against each other, will take place at Accor Stadium in Sydney in March 2025.
“I’m looking forward to being part of the Race Of Champions again and competing for Germany together with Mick,” said Vettel, who has previously won the Nations Cup six times alongside Mick’s father, Michael Schumacher.
Meanwhile, as Mick Schumacher continues his role as Mercedes’ reserve driver, his F1 ambitions seem far from over. The 24-year-old could be poised for a sensational return to the Formula 1 grid, with reports suggesting he’s a strong contender for the second seat at Sauber, which will soon morph into Audi’s works team by 2026.
Mattia Binotto, the former Ferrari team principal and now Audi-owned Sauber’s Chief Technical Officer and Chief Operating Officer, is reportedly keeping a close eye on Schumacher for 2025. Binotto, who oversaw Schumacher’s development during his time in the Ferrari Driver Academy from 2019 to 2022, is said to be confident in Mick’s potential.
“Binotto is now playing for time,” noted an F1 journalist. “He has a very good joker in reserve in Mick Schumacher, whose strengths and weaknesses he knows very well from his time at the Ferrari Academy.”
Schumacher’s time at Haas F1 was marked by inconsistent performances, ultimately leading to his departure after the 2022 season. However, a second chance at Sauber could see him flourish under the right leadership, particularly with Binotto, who is already familiar with Schumacher’s talents and areas for growth.
With both the Race of Champions and a possible F1 comeback on the horizon, 2025 could be a defining year for Mick Schumacher. His deep ties to Vettel and a potential future with Sauber signal that the young German might finally get the opportunity to prove himself at the pinnacle of motorsport.