Mercedes test and reserve driver, Mick Schumacher, took the opportunity to test McLaren’s 2021 MCL35M car on Wednesday, in accordance with Formula 1’s TPC rules. These rules allow teams to conduct tests using two-year-old machinery. The test came as part of an arrangement between Mercedes and McLaren, where the two teams share their test and reserve drivers. McLaren, a customer of Mercedes, previously had an agreement with the German manufacturer to call upon Stoffel Vandoorne and Nyck de Vries as replacements for their race drivers if necessary. This agreement was extended for the 2023 season, making Schumacher available as a reserve driver in case either Lando Norris or rookie Oscar Piastri is unable to race. The Portimao test provided Schumacher with the opportunity to familiarize himself with McLaren’s operations, as he had not previously worked with the Woking-based team.
A Valuable Experience for Schumacher and McLaren
Due to McLaren’s participation in a double-header of the Austrian and British Grands Prix, they dispatched a test team consisting of young engineering talents in addition to Schumacher. This allowed mechanics and engineering apprentices and interns to gain valuable experience working in a trackside environment. Schumacher’s participation in the test at Portimao marked his second Formula 1 test of the year. Earlier, he had taken part in a day of Pirelli tyre testing in Barcelona for Mercedes, where teams were evaluating prototype tyres without tire blankets. Reflecting on his experience in Barcelona, Schumacher stated that it would undoubtedly benefit him in his role as a test and reserve driver. He gained a better understanding of what to focus on and work on, as well as the team’s trackside procedures. This knowledge would be crucial in case he ever needed to step in and race.
Schumacher transitioned to the role of test and reserve driver after not being retained by Haas, the team that gave him his Formula 1 debut in 2021. Following two challenging seasons with the struggling outfit, Schumacher was replaced by his more experienced compatriot, Nico Hulkenberg, for the 2023 season. However, Schumacher will have another opportunity to make an appearance in Formula 1 later this month. He is scheduled to drive his father’s 2011 Mercedes W02 car at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
In summary, Mick Schumacher, Mercedes’ test and reserve driver, completed a test with McLaren, driving their 2021 MCL35M car. This test was conducted under Formula 1’s TPC rules, which allow teams to test with two-year-old machinery. Schumacher’s participation in the test provided him with a chance to familiarize himself with McLaren’s operations. Additionally, McLaren took the opportunity to involve their young engineering talents in the test. Schumacher had previously taken part in a Pirelli tyre test in Barcelona, which he believed would benefit him in his role as a reserve driver. After being replaced by Nico Hulkenberg at Haas, Schumacher now holds the position of test and reserve driver for Mercedes. He will also have the opportunity to drive his father’s 2011 Mercedes W02 car at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Leave a Reply