Vettel backs Schumacher for F1 comeback with Williams

Four-time F1 world champion Sebastian Vettel has asserted Mick Schumacher is deserving of an F1 comeback at Williams.

Following Logan Sargeant's heavy crash during FP3 at Zandvoort, reports emerged that the American driver could be dropped ahead of the Italian Grand Prix this weekend.

Sargeant's time with Williams was already confirmed to be numbered prior to the incident as the Grove-based squad announced during the summer break that he would be replaced in 2025 by Carlos Sainz.

However, in the wake of his latest difficult weekend, his exit could come even sooner - with ex-Haas driver Schumacher emerging as a candidate.

Vettel has backed the 25-year-old to step into the seat in place of Sargeant.

“If it were my decision, I would tend to favour Mick,” Vettel told Bild. “Of course I'm a bit biased because he's my friend, but in my eyes he's the best solution. 

“Mick has two years of experience in Formula 1 as a driver, has a very broad technical insight thanks to his current role [as Mercedes reserve driver]. 

“He knows the Mercedes engine and has matured a lot as a person since leaving Haas.”

Vettel states people have 'wrong image' of Schumacher

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has also voiced support for Schumacher in light of the possibility of a return to the grid.

However, Red Bull reserve Liam Lawson has also emerged as a contender after Christian Horner confirmed the team would be open to loaning out the New Zealander.

Vettel pinpointed that Schumacher's knowledge of the remaining tracks on the calendar (bar Las Vegas) should place him as the favourite.

“Mick is a good racing driver,” Vettel added. “He's won Formula 2 and Formula 3 - that's no mean feat. 

“Now he has matured even more. I'm sure that he could impress at Williams. Especially as, unlike other candidates, he knows the Formula 1 driver line-up and the circuits. That's a big advantage.

“I hope he gets the chance and can show the world what he's capable of. Mick has been unfairly branded because of his two years at Haas. 

“Of course, he made mistakes, but the car wasn't competitive. Many people have the wrong image of him.”