Schumacher and Mazepin both graduated from Formula 2 to F1 at Haas for the 2021 season and were widely expected to continue next year.
In a statement ahead of Mazepin’s home Grand Prix in Russia this weekend, Haas confirmed that it would compete with an unchanged line-up for the next season.
“We knew that we wanted continuity at the wheel in 2022, and I am pleased to be able to confirm exactly that, as Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin will compete for the Uralkali Haas F1 Team next year,” said team principal Gunther Steiner.
“2021 gave both drivers the opportunity to learn Formula 1 – and as rookies they made a lot of it this year.
“It was certainly a tough season with the package we had, but at the same time they both accepted the challenge and worked closely with the team to learn our processes and adapt to the rigors of a Formula 1 campaign and so on. “That brings – internally and externally.
“When we look to the 2022 season now, we are confident that we can make progress as a team and offer Mick and Nikita a competitive racing package to take the next step in their Formula 1 careers.”
Nikita Mazepin, Haas F1 and Mick Schumacher, Haas F1
Photo by: Charles Coates / Motorsport Images
Haas has decided against developing its 2021 car in order to fully focus on the upcoming regulations in the next season and treat this season as a year of transition.
As a result, Schumacher and Mazepin lagged behind at the end of the field and often only fight for position, which has led to some tension between the duo, which was last seen at Zandvoort with incidents in qualifying and in the race.
While there was no doubt that Mazepin would continue with the team for the next year, particularly with his main backer Uralkali who acts as Haas’ title sponsor, Schumacher’s deal needed to be signed.
“The first year together with Haas F1 is very exciting and instructive and I am sure that I will be able to bring all of the experience I have gained into the coming year,” said Schumacher.
“New technical regulations, the impressive ambition of the entire Haas F1 team and the support from Ferrari – of course I believe that this will bring us closer to the field in the 2022 season and that we can fight for points.”
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Mazepin added, “I’m really looking forward to next year, getting the new car and just getting the opportunity with the Haas F1 team and growing with them. I think we will be strong next year. “
Haas’s confirmation means the only unannounced seat for next season is now with Alfa Romeo, with the team not yet announcing who Valtteri Bottas’ teammate will be.
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