Marko Reveals Mick Schumacher Nearly Stepped In For Giovinazzi On Sunday’s Eifel GP

Mick Schumacher has been in the news for all the right reasons these days. The man who is leading the F2 Championship has been tipped as a strong contender for an F1 seat in 2021.

There was a great level of anticipation to see Michael Schumacher’s son make his F1 practice debut at the Nurburgring. But sadly, terrible weather ensured the session never materialized.

Regardless of the minor disappointment, things only look brighter for Mick from here on. The F1 practice debut could most certainly happen again for him, this time prior to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Mick Schumacher could have driven in place of Giovinazzi

The 21-year-old German driver had been lined up to drive the Alfa Romeo C39 in the first free practice session. But Red Bull motorsport advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko, has revealed that Mick Schumacher could have driven the race, in place of regular driver Antonio Giovinazzi.

Dr. Marko is quoted as saying, “Giovinazzi had the same situation as Albon. Mick would have almost been Celebrating racing debut. But the second test was negative.”  (translated from Google Translate)

There were talks of former Renault driver Nico Hulkenberg replacing Alex Albon for the race weekend. But, owing to Lance Stroll’s health, he was called up by Racing Point – where he eventually finished in P8.

What a weekend it could have been for Mick Schumacher though. Considering a washed-out practice scuppering his debut, his first competitive F1 appearance in front of his home crowd would have been special.

‘Schumi Junior’ could get a permanent F1 seat for the 2021 season

Mick Schumacher, Callum Ilott, and Yuki Tsunoda have been the names mentioned in recent times, with a likelihood of featuring in Formula 1 next season. But, according to Dr. Marko, Mick will most likely drive for the Alfa Romeo team in 2021.

“Mick Schumacher aspired to this career. He knew from the start that the name Schumacher was a big burden. He has managed it so far and, as far as I know, will drive for Alfa Romeo next year.” said Marko. (translated from Google Translate)

With four more races to go in Bahrain, the F2 Championship title race is heating up. Should Mick seal victories in the next couple of races, he will most certainly be declared the champion. The Championship only serves to hold him in good stead, as he potentially enters the top motorsport division in a few months’ time.