Next week, Mick Schumacher will test a 2022-spec Alpine A522 at Circuit Paul Ricard.
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The German driver, who lost his seat at Haas at the end of 2022, has since taken on reserve duties for Mercedes while competing for Alpine in the World Endurance Championship, including a recent appearance at the Le Mans 24 Hours.
The 25-year-old is considered a contender for a seat at Alpine next year, as the French team has at least one vacancy following their separation from Esteban Ocon.
He will have one day of track time at the French circuit the week before the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, driving Alpine’s 2022-spec car for the first time.
Since losing his spot on the F1 grid, Schumacher’s time in F1 machinery has been limited. Last year, he participated in a Pirelli tyre test for Mercedes and had some sessions in a 2021-spec McLaren.
Schumacher, the son of seven-time world champion Michael, will be joined on track in France next week by Alpine reserve driver Jack Doohan.
Australian Doohan, a member of the Alpine Academy, is reportedly being seriously considered for a race seat promotion in 2025.
Alpine stated: “As part of our TPC (testing of previous cars) programme, we will test Reserve Driver Jack Doohan, in line with his 2024 schedule, as well as Mick Schumacher as part of his Alpine Endurance project next week at Circuit Paul Ricard. We look forward to continuing to use our Race Support Team and the A522 Formula 1 car during our TPC programme.”
Pierre Gasly is expected to be a leading candidate to retain his seat at Alpine for a third season into 2025, with significant competition for the other seat.
In addition to Doohan and Schumacher, 10-time race winner Valtteri Bottas is also considered a candidate. At the same time, Carlos Sainz remains a long shot, with the Spaniard in more advanced talks with Williams and Sauber/Audi.
Regarding the search for drivers for 2025, Alpine Team Principal Bruno Famin commented during the Spanish Grand Prix weekend:
“The list looks good, and the process is progressing well.”
Photo Courtesy of: Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team
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