Mick Schumacher joins Mercedes as new role in F1 confirmed for upcoming season

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    Mick Schumacher has joined Mercedes as their reserve driver for the 2023 season.

    Schumacher had spent the past two years as a driver for Haas, but lost his seat to the returning Nico Hulkenburg after some lacklustre performances for the American team.

    A statement from the son of F1 legend Michael on Mercedes' website read: "I am thrilled to be part of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team as their reserve driver for 2023, and I am committed to give it my all to contribute to their performance in this very competitive and professional environment.

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    "I take this as a new start, and I am just excited and grateful to Toto and everybody involved for putting their trust in me. F1 is such a fascinating world, and you never stop learning, so I look forward to absorbing more knowledge and putting in all my efforts for the benefit of the Mercedes team."

    Team principal Toto Wolff added: "Mick is a talented young driver and we’re delighted to have him join the team. He is a hard worker, has a calm and methodical approach and is still hungry to learn and improve as a driver.

    Was Mick unlucky to lose his Haas seat? Let us know in the comments section.

    "These are all important qualities, and we’re excited for him to help us develop the W14.

    "We also know that with two years of experience racing in Formula One under his belt, he will be ready to step into the car at short notice to replace either Lewis or George, should that need arise."

    Mercedes have gone with an unchanged driver line-up for next year with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton marking his 10th season with the German team, while George Russell will be entering his second season alongside his fellow Brit.

    Schumacher will be on hand should either be unavailable at any point. He will also carry out regular simulator work at their base in Brackley.

    The 23-year-old was handed his fist drive in F1 by Haas in 2021. He claimed his maiden points finish at the British Grand Prix in July and followed that up with a sixth-placed finish at the Austrian GP a week later.

    But he was largely outperformed by team-mate Kevin Magnussen, whose 25 points were more than double his 12 come the end of the 2022 season.

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