Audi F1 boss Mattia Binotto has defended his decision not to hire Mick Schumacher for a 2025 drive.
After months of speculation, Audi F1 – which will rename the existing Sauber/Stake F1 team in 2026 – confirmed on Wednesday that Schumacher would not be in its plans to start F2 championship leader Gabriel Bortoleto as part of a multi-year contract.
This ended Schumacher's dreams of returning to the Formula 1 grid for 2025, potentially permanently.
The German was nevertheless considered by Binotto, the Italian knowing him well having supported him in the Ferrari Academy then helped with his tenure at Haas F1.
“Yes, Mick was indeed considered for an Audi F1 seat. We had several discussions, he was certainly a strong candidate.
“I know him very well from the past and I know his strengths and maybe his weaknesses as well, but I certainly think he would have been a good choice. There were many candidates and Mick would certainly have been a good choice also.”
“Sometimes you have to make a decision. I don't think there's any reason or blame, the reason is just that we chose Gabriel and that's it.”
“And I think maybe we should ask Toto Wolff the same thing: why Kimi (Antonelli) and not Mick?”
“I think at some point you have to make a decision. We made the decision to hire Gabriel and we're happy with it.”
Schumacher is now expected to re-sign with Alpine for its World Endurance Championship programme, having returned to competition with the French manufacturer this year.
And if Valtteri Bottas were to return to a role as reserve driver at Mercedes F1, it is unlikely that Schumacher would be able to continue.
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