SEPTEMBER 29, 2025

Schumacher turns to Indycar as F1 hopes fade

Mick Schumacher will test an Indycar for the first time next month, as his chances of returning to Formula 1 continue to fade.

After losing out on a Cadillac seat for 2026 - the team opting for Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez - Schumacher has accepted an invitation from Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing to test at Indianapolis on October 13.

I am very much looking forward to driving my first Indycar test, the 26-year-old said. "It's no secret that I'm a big fan of single-seater racing, so this first Indycar test will be an experience to treasure.

I'm really looking forward to driving a car where I can see my wheels.

Team co-owner Bobby Rahal commented: "I've followed Mick's career as well as that of his father, so the thought of seeing him in one of our race cars is very exciting.

Obviously he has a great deal of talent and it should give him a good baseline to start from.

Schumacher's career has stalled since Haas dropped him at the end of 2022. He served as Mercedes reserve before switching full-time to Alpine's WEC program, where he has scored multiple podiums.

German outlets say Indycar could now offer Schumacher the platform to relaunch his single-seater career. It's a chance for Mick to show what he can do in a tough series, noted SID news agency.

DPA added that the Indy test raises hopes of a future start at the Indy 500.

Auto Motor und Sport agreed the move is about visibility: In endurance racing, it's difficult to attract attention. To regain some of the focus of the premier class, Schumacher has put out feelers toward Indycar.

Schumacher would join a list of ex-F1 drivers - including Romain Grosjean and Fernando Alonso - who have tried their hand in the American style of open-wheeler racing.

Max Verstappen, meanwhile, ruled out following the same path. Le Mans, yes, but I'm not interested in the Triple Crown, the Dutchman said.

I enjoy watching Indycar, but I don't need to drive it myself.

(GMM)