F1 star Mick Schumacher starting 'new chapter' as he signs up for World Endurance Championship
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Published 22/11/2023 at 23:08 GMT
Mick Schumacher believes he is entering a "new chapter" in his career after signing up to race for Apline in next season's World Endurance Championship. The 24-year old, who lost his seat on the grid for F1 team Haas in 2022 and will continue to be back-up to Lewis Hamilton and George Russell at Mercedes, says the series of races is a "great opportunity" to hone his skills.
F1 star Schumacher 'excited' to take part in World Endurance Championship
Mick Schumacher believes he's entering a "new chapter" in his career after signing up for the World Endurance Championships.
The 24-year old will race for Alpine in the 2024 series, which gets underway in Qatar in March.
Schumacher is the son of Formula 1 legend Michael, who won a joint-record seven world titles between 1994 and 2004.
After losing his seat on the F1 grid, Schumacher junior thinks he's found the perfect way to develop his driving skills.
"A new chapter is beginning for me with Alpine in the FIA WEC Hypercar category," he said. "The car is impressive, and I can’t wait to get started.
"I’ve grown up with single-seaters, so driving a car with a closed cockpit and covered wheels is a great opportunity to hone my driving skills."
Schumacher was dropped by Haas at the end of the 2022, having earned just 12 points from his 43 race starts.
His last race was the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 12 months ago, when he finished in 16th place, over a lap behind winner Max Verstappen, and he admits he's missed the thrill of getting behind the wheel.
"I sorely missed racing this year," he continued. "It’s what I’ve loved to do since I was a kid, and it was sometimes difficult to watch the other drivers take to the track.
"Endurance racing is a new challenge for me, and I’m sure we will share great moments together next year with Alpine."
The 24-year old will combine his new role with his position for Mercedes, where he has been back-up driver to Lewis Hamilton and George Russell at Mercedes, a position he will continue to fill in 2024.
Indeed, the Brackley-based team have been thoroughly supported of the move, stating: "We’re excited to see Mick continue to contribute to our team alongside his new challenge in World Endurance next season.”
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