Mick Schumacher is officially confirmed to remain at Haas alongside Nikita Mazepin for the 2022 F1 season.
Although Schumacher had signed a multi-year ‘three-way’ contract, the confirmation of his drive with Haas was still to be officially done, as noted by the German and the team before the summer break. Both termed it as a formality and to be done by now.
In fact, Guenther Steiner explained the reason for this was because of Ferrari involvement, which makes it a three-way contract, rather than just the driver and team. He did not reveal if there were fine-tuning of the contract, but everything was under control.
Amid host of announcements between Zandvoort and Monza, Haas were speculated to join the party with the confirmation of Schumacher alongside Mazepin ahead of Italian GP, but they eventually deferred the announcement to pre-Sochi.
“By being part of the Formula 1 field, I am living my dream,” said Schumacher. “The first year together with Haas F1 is very exciting and instructive, and I’m sure I can bring all the experience I’ve gained into the coming year. New technical regulations, the impressive ambition of the entire Haas F1 team and the support of Ferrari – of course I believe this will bring us closer to the field in the 2022 season and we will be able to fight for points.
“I’m looking forward to being part of a team that is getting stronger, and I’ll do everything I can from my side to move us forward. Finally, I would like to thank the Ferrari Driver Academy for the trust they continue to give me and the support they have shown me over the years,” summed up up Schumacher.
Teammate Mazepin added: “I’m very excited for next year, the new car and simply just to get the opportunity with Haas F1 Team and grow together with them. I think we will come out strong next year.”
And finally, team boss Steiner stated: “We knew we wanted continuity behind the wheel in 2022 and I’m happy to confirm exactly that with Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin competing for Uralkali Haas F1 Team next year. 2021 has afforded both drivers the opportunity to learn Formula 1 – and as rookies – they’ve done a lot of that this year.
“It’s been a tough season for sure with the package we’ve had, but at the same time they’ve both embraced the challenge and worked closely with the team to learn our processes and adapt to the rigors of a Formula 1 campaign and all that brings – both internally and externally.
“Now as we look ahead to the 2022 season, we’re confident we can move forward as a team and give Mick and Nikita a competitive race package to make the next step in their Formula 1 careers.”
Here’s Ferrari not intervening in Haas matters
Here’s Nikita Mazepin on chassis change bringing confidence
Here’s Nikita Mazepin being apologetic to Mick Schumacher after Monza
Here’s the post-Dutch GP Haas shenanigans
