Mick Schumacher, the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, has been confirmed as a Formula One driver for 2021.
Thirty years after his father was handed his debut by Jordan, 21-year-old Mick will line up at the season-opening grand prix in Melbourne for Haas on 21 March The German, who could wrap up the Formula Two championship in Bahrain this weekend, has signed a multi-year deal to race with the American team.
“The prospect of being on the Formula One grid next year makes me incredibly happy and I’m simply speechless,” said Schumacher, who is also a member of the Ferrari young driver programme.
“I also want to acknowledge and extend my love to my parents – I know that I owe them everything. I have always believed that I would realise my dream of Formula One.
“A huge thank you must also go to all the great motorsport fans out there who have supported me throughout my career. I will give it my all, as I always do, and I look forward to going on this journey together with Haas F1 and them.”
Meanwhile, George Russell will deputise for Lewis Hamilton at the Sakhir Grand Prix this weekend. Hamilton will miss the race as he self-isolates following a positive test for Covid-19 after his success at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday. Williams have announced that they have released fellow Briton Russell to race alongside Valtteri Bottas.
“I might be wearing a different race suit this weekend, but I’m a Williams driver and I’ll be cheering my team on every step of the way,” the 22-year-old Russel told the BBCl.
“I see this as a great chance to learn from the best outfit on the grid right now and to come back as an improved driver, with even more energy and experience to help push Williams further up the grid. A big thank you also to Mercedes for putting their faith in me.
“Obviously, nobody can replace Lewis, but I’ll give my all for the team in his absence from the moment I step in the car. Most importantly, I wish him a speedy recovery. I’m really looking forward to the opportunity and can’t wait to get out on track this week.”
Romain Grosjean has been discharged from hospital just three days after his 140mph fireball crash at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday. The French Formula One driver was airlifted to the Bahrain Defence Force Hospital with burns to his hands. Grosjean, 34, was deemed well enough to be released on Wednesday morning. He is due to remain in Bahrain.