F1 News: Toto Wolff works on securing Mick Schumacher a Williams seat
Roughly twelve months ago, Toto Wolff tried convincing James Vowles to sign Mick Schumacher for the 2024 season. His efforts were unsuccessful, likely because James Vowles’ long-term plans involved a more ambitious target in Carlos Sainz. Despite this, another more viable opportunity has presented itself at Williams, and Mick Schumacher is eager to capitalise.
Before discussing Schumacher’s Williams chances, it must be stressed that nothing is set in stone. Logan Sargeant hasn’t been replaced yet, even if all indicators suggest time is running out.
Vowles is still evaluating the different paths available to him, and a final call hasn’t been made.
With this disclaimer out of the way, Toto Wolff clearly senses an opening to get Mick Schumacher back on the grid – albeit for half a season.
Having spent almost two years as a Mercedes reserve driver, Schumacher may never have a better chance to make an F1 comeback.
Wolff ready to capitalise on Williams opportunity
Speaking to the media in Zandvoort, Wolff made the case for the 25-year-old:
“I would very much hope that Mick gets the chance because we haven’t seen the real Mick.
“You’re not winning F4, F3 and F2 and then you’re not performing in F1… I think he deserves a chance.
“If the opportunity would be at Williams it’s something that we would be cheering for. But it’s James Vowles’ decision.”
Provided that Vowles commits to a mid-season swap, Mick Schumacher is among a limited pool of readily available drivers.
Given Mercedes’s obvious ties to Williams, it seems safe to assume the Silver Arrows will make their voices heard behind the scenes.
Of course, this does not mean Williams are obliged to discard their own preferences for the sake of their engine suppliers.
Liam Lawson is still an obvious contender
The biggest threat to Schumacher’s hopes of an F1 comeback (and Logan Sargeant’s seat) is Liam Lawson.
It goes without saying that Lawson’s substitute appearances last year were hugely impressive. Williams could plausibly see the 22-year-old as their best option to reinforce Alex Albon for the rest of 2024.
Red Bull are also open to sending him on loan to Williams. Then again, negotiating contract details could be a slightly trickier process for the Austrian outfit.
In the relatively near future, a clearer image should emerge of this situation.
