
Former Haas driver Mick Schumacher has conducted a test with the McLaren Formula 1 team in Portimao as part of his 2023 reserve driver role.
Mick Schumacher, the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, recently completed his first test with the McLaren Formula 1 team at the Portimao circuit. The test was conducted as part of Schumacher’s reserve driver responsibilities for the 2023 season. Schumacher had the opportunity to take the wheel of McLaren’s 2021 MCL35M car, thanks to F1’s Test and Privateer Customer (TPC) rules, which allow teams to conduct tests using two-year-old machinery. This test served as an important opportunity for Schumacher to familiarize himself with the McLaren team and gain valuable experience behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car.
The test was made possible through an arrangement between Mercedes and McLaren. As McLaren uses Mercedes engines, the two teams have agreed to share their test and reserve drivers. In previous years, McLaren had access to Mercedes drivers Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries as potential replacements for their race drivers. This season, the agreement was extended to include Mick Schumacher, who will be available to step in if either Lando Norris or rookie Oscar Piastri is unable to race.
Completing the Portimao test allowed Schumacher to become acquainted with the workings of the McLaren team, as he had not previously worked with them. Notably, the test team that supported Schumacher in Portimao included some of McLaren’s young engineering talents, along with mechanic and engineering apprentices and interns, who gained valuable experience in a trackside environment.
This test with McLaren marks Schumacher’s second outing in a Formula 1 car this year. Previously, he participated in a day of Pirelli tyre testing in Barcelona for Mercedes, where teams trialed prototype tyres without tire blankets. Schumacher acknowledged the importance of such experiences, stating, this experience will definitely benefit me in my role. I have a better understanding of what to look out for and what to work on. I also have a better understanding of all the procedures and how the team works trackside. That would be a key factor in case I ever have to jump in and race.
Following a challenging two seasons with the Haas team, Schumacher moved into a test and reserve driver role after not being retained for the 2023 season. His position at Haas was filled by fellow German driver Nico Hulkenberg. Despite the change, Schumacher remains committed to his Formula 1 career and is determined to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.
In addition to his testing duties, Schumacher will also make a special appearance later this month at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. He is set to drive his father’s 2011 Mercedes W02 car, adding another layer of sentiment to his F1 journey. As Mick Schumacher continues to build his experience and work closely with McLaren, fans eagerly await his future performances and hope to see him achieve success in the pinnacle of motorsport.
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