The name of Mick Schumacher is currently again being associated with the possibility of a permanent comeback to Formula 1 and this time the discussion has assumed a different element. As Andretti Global owner General Motors proposed to enter Formula 1 under the Cadillac banner, Schumacher has already stated that he is in talks with the project in a very positive way, which opens the door to the possibility of high-profile comeback.

German driver has since then been the reserve driver of Mercedes and a race driver in the WEC programme of Alpine but has not been racing in Formula 1 since being dismissed by Haas after the 2022 season. Though rumours of his comeback have flown around, this is one of the most tangible makings of a door opening.

At proceeding of the WEC round at Interlagos, Schumacher had spoken in more measured ways but with hopes. Not in concrete he replied, but I am certainly talking to them. The interviews that I have conducted have been encouraging. He admitted that the deadline of when Cadillac might enter Formula 1 is still subject to confirmation by the FIA and FOM, but he has clarified that his and their interest may as well be genuine and bilateral.

The intriguing thing about this possible combination is the political and technical aspect of the deal of Andretti and GM entering F1 together. Whereas the FIA accepted the proposal of Andretti in 2023, the Formula One Management has been opening hostile to the idea referencing commercial impact and place in the grid. However, GM itself and its Cadillac brand has now made clear that it will produce its own F1 power unit by 2028, which is quite a bold move and confirms its longevity plans.

That schedule matters, since it implies that the team is aiming to join as a customer team earlier than 2028 as a customer team – probably with Renault power – until the Cadillac unit can be brought to competence. Considering Schumacher at this point means the team is already at the stage of pre-planning its first driver pair in case it manages to secure entry in 2026 or 2027. At least to Mick, it is a no-brainer as there will be a factory-backed programme with a big manufacturer behind it with all the support and exposure that he sometimes granted at Haas.

What goes in the favour of Schumacher though is not the name and his pedigree alone, but his versatility and adaptability. His time at WEC is assisting him in developing a wider set of skills, whereas he is a reserve driver at Mercedes, which keeps him active on the F1 development and simulation front.

Strategically, it is evident that GM and Andretti are interested in drivers that will offer not only performance but on the value of the brand and experience on how to maneuver in the F1 world. Schumacher does both. His F1 record at Haas might not shine, but it should be noted that it was at a time when the team was still changing hands and its development was also minimal. His two seasons in the American team provided him with a very crucial experience, but in some way did nothing much to demonstrate his potential.

Especially the link to America itself may be important. Schumacher in the domestically based U.S. F1 squad, sponsored by one of the leading U.S. builders such as Cadillac, would be a marketing feat on both sides of the Atlantic. And as the F1 calendar expands in the U.S. market, in Miami through Austin and Las Vegas, a partnership with such a name as, Schumacher would add effect to the presence of Cadillac into one of the most competitive motorsports environments.

Naturally a lot depends on where Andretti gets the approval of F1 to enter. Politics and Finances involved in the creation of the 11th team are controversial. But there is more credibility with the growing interest of GM, including the project on power unit. And it is possible that as one of the team members tries to prove its determination, the association with someone like Schumacher can help it in establishing its credentials, not only with the general spectator but also with the people in the paddock.

At this point Mick is wary. His teaming up with these people on discussions is not a coincidence. He has managed to stay relevant, practice his racecraft in other series and that he remains involved with the F1 world. Provided that the plans of Cadillac are not going back, we might find one of his names back on the F1 grid- with an opportunity to now develop something starting at the grass roots.

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