Mercedes have named Mick Schumacher as their reserve driver for 2023, reflecting their confidence Lewis Hamilton won’t spring retirement on them.
Hamilton’s boss Toto Wolff had initially deliberate to enlist the skilled Daniel Ricciardo to fill the reserve position when he got here in the marketplace after his sacking by McLaren.
An eight-time race winner, he was supposed to behave as ‘cowl’ in case Hamilton give up.
Mercedes have issued a lift of confidence surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s (L) F1 future
The F1 group named Mick Schumacher as their reserve driver for 2023 on Thursday afternoon
At that stage, Hamilton was nonetheless coming to phrases with the brutal method through which he misplaced final yr’s title, in addition to working with a sub-standard Mercedes. However he has since spoken enthusiastically of committing past his present contract, which expires on the finish of 2023.
So assured is Wolff of preserving Hamilton, who turns 38 in January, that he was content material to see Ricciardo go to Purple Bull and herald a extra typical reserve, equivalent to Schumacher.
‘Mick is a gifted younger driver and we’re delighted to have him,’ mentioned Wolff. ‘He’s a tough employee, and continues to be hungry to enhance.’
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff had initially deliberate to get Daniel Ricciardo to take the position
