Haas’s team principal had earlier made it clear it would only be the points that Mick Schumacher scores in the remaining season that could help him keep his seat. It has been two races since then and the German has scored no points. Despite that, Guenther Steiner has backtracked on the statement but the cryptic message shows Haas is still not firm on any decision.
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With just two more races to go, the 2022 Formula 1 season is nearing its end. While Kevin Magnussen has scored 24 points, his teammate has only managed half his tally. Even though Magnussen hasn’t scored many points either, it is Mick Schumacher whose seat is in danger. The reason is proving him costly to the team because of his frequent crashes.
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Guenther Steiner backtracks on his earlier comment on Mick Schumacher
Steiner had earlier admitted to being in touch with multiple drivers, including Nico Hulkenberg to partner with Kevin Magnussen next season. The team has, however, not finalized any driver yet. Now, while speaking with RTL, the team boss revealed how points are no longer the criteria for Mick to keep his cockpit next season.
Formula One F1 – Austrian Grand Prix – Red Bull Ring, Spielberg, Austria – July 7, 2022 Haas Team Principal Guenther Steiner ahead of the Grand Prix REUTERS/Florion Goga
He said, “For me, it’s no longer about one race, one lap. For me, it’s about what’s best for the Haas team in the medium to long term.” [Translated using Google] He continued, “It’s not like they said that if Mick scores points now, he has the place or not.”
Steiner revealed they will look for a driver who can lead the team in the long run. He had earlier admitted to being in touch with Aston Martin reserve driver Nico Hulkenberg and McLaren’s out-of-favor driver Daniel Ricciardo.
Will Nico Hulkenberg replace Mick Schumacher? Or will it be Daniel Ricciardo?
Nico Hulkenberg hasn’t raced as a regular driver since 2019. Daniel Ricciardo in his two years with McLaren has failed to impress. In both seasons, the Honey Badger has failed to score more points than his young teammate Lando Norris. Whatever their current situations may be, both Hulkenberg and Ricciardo have a ton of experience.
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Formula One F1 – Mexico City Grand Prix – Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City, Mexico – October 28, 2022 McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo during practice REUTERS/Carlos Perez Gallardo
Speaking with RTL about being in touch with Nico, Steiner revealed, “I spoke to him.” “I’ve known Nico for a long time – better than I know Daniel.”
The Haas team principal also admitted to being in touch with Daniel Ricciardo. Ricciardo was, however, uninterested in joining Haas. Steiner still rates him highly. Talking to the Associated Press, he said, “For us, he would be a big hit. He was a race winner just last year. I rate him as a driver and I have no idea why he doesn’t perform right now.”
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Watch This Story: Vettel & Mick’s team got knocked out by Jimmie Johnson & Colton Herta
With only two more races to go in the season, Haas needs to decide quickly on who they want to go with. Who do you think will partner with Magnussen in 2023?
