Alpine urged to award Schumacher F1 comeback

Former F1 driver-turned-pundit Timo Glock is advocating on Mick Schumacher's behalf, arguing he can use his opportunities with Alpine in WEC to "keep his foot in the door" of F1.

The former Jordan, Toyota, Virgin and Marussia racer believes Schumacher "deserves" a chance, but that he must maintain his form in WEC in order to keep his F1 dream alive.

The son of Michael Schumacher made his debut in the series in 2021 for Haas, having won FIA F3 and F2 on his way up the junior ladder. However, after two difficult campaigns with the American team, he was dropped at the end of 2022 in favour of Nico Hulkenberg.

Having joined Mercedes in a developmental and reserve role, Schumacher is now part of Alpine's set up in endurance racing - something Glock, who raced in F1 between in 2004 and between 2008-2012, feels is key to his prospects.

Speaking before Esteban Ocon's departure from Alpine was confirmed, the 42-year-old highlighted the discontent from the team's current drivers, with the Enstone squad second-from-bottom in the constructors' standings this term.

"I think there is unrest between the two," Glock said on Sky F1 Germany. "Neither is happy with their current situation at Alpine.

"That's why there is a great opportunity for Mick. He just has to try to continue to impress with his performances in the WEC and try to keep his foot in the door and show himself. That's the only way he can get into a cockpit next year. I hope so for him, he deserves it."

'My goal and my dream is to drive in Formula 1'

Despite failing to score points in his debut F1 campaign in an uncompetitive Haas, Schumacher beat team-mate Nikita Mazepin comfortably.

However, with the American squad taking a step forward in 2022, Schumacher struggled to fight alongside Kevin Magnussen for points, ending the year on less than half the Dane's haul - 25 to 12.

In addition to being unable to match Magnussen's pace, the 25-year-old had a string of costly accidents, which soured his relationship with the team and precipitated his exit at the end of the season, with Haas opting for experience for 2023 onwards.

Even with former team principal Guenther Steiner warning Alpine not to sign him, the German driver is hopeful of reviving his dream of racing in F1.

"My goal and my dream is to drive in Formula 1," Schumacher told Sky F1 Germany. "It has always been that way and it will always be that way. 

"That's why we have to make sure that the dominoes fall in my direction and hopefully I end up with a seat. 

"What I can do is to simply give my best performance in the WEC and also in Formula 1 and continue to perform well for the team as a reserve driver and continue to lead the discussions."