Günther Steiner Advises Against Mick Schumacher's Potential F1 Return with Alpine

Former Haas team boss Günther Steiner has voiced strong reservations about Alpine signing Mick Schumacher for a Formula 1 comeback in 2025. Steiner, who previously managed Schumacher during his two-season stint at Haas, believes Alpine should aim to secure the best driver available on the market.

Steiner's comments come amid rumors that Schumacher, the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, could return to the F1 grid with Alpine. Schumacher has been part of Alpine's hypercar project in the World Endurance Championship and is currently serving as Mercedes' reserve driver.

Alpine is considering Schumacher as a candidate for their 2025 lineup, following a challenging start to the 2024 season. Team boss Bruno Famin has confirmed that Schumacher is among the options being evaluated. However, Steiner remains unconvinced, arguing that a works team like Alpine should prioritize top-tier talent.

Steiner suggested that Alpine should look at other drivers, such as Carlos Sainz, who will leave Ferrari at the end of the season, or Yuki Tsunoda, who is performing well with Red Bull Racing. "You need to get the best driver you know is out there. I think people which are showing that they're very good," Steiner said.

Alpine's current driver lineup includes Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, both of whom have contracts expiring at the end of the season. Ocon's departure has already been confirmed, leaving a vacant seat for 2025. The team is also considering reserve driver Jack Doohan as a potential replacement.

Steiner also highlighted the importance of team dynamics, particularly given the history of clashes between Ocon and Gasly. He emphasized that while teammates don't need to be best friends, mutual respect is essential. "Team-mates don't need to be the best friends, they don't need to go out for dinner, but they need to respect each other," Steiner noted.

Mick Schumacher's potential return to F1 remains uncertain, with opinions divided on the best path forward. Ralf Schumacher, Mick's uncle, supports the idea of joining Alpine, citing the team's familiarity with his performance in the World Endurance Championship. Conversely, former German F1 driver Timo Glock believes Williams could offer a better opportunity.

As Alpine considers its options for the 2025 season, the team faces critical decisions that could shape its future performance. While Steiner's warning adds a layer of complexity, the final decision will hinge on balancing talent, team dynamics, and strategic goals.

Key Takeaways

• Former Haas boss Günther Steiner advises Alpine against signing Mick Schumacher for 2025.
• Steiner suggests Alpine should aim for top-tier talent like Carlos Sainz or Yuki Tsunoda.
• Alpine is considering Schumacher, Jack Doohan, and others to replace Esteban Ocon.
• Steiner emphasizes the importance of team dynamics and mutual respect between drivers.
• Opinions are divided on Schumacher's potential return to F1, with some supporting Alpine and others Williams.