Another domino falls: consequences for Mick Schumacher and Audi. Mick Schumacher’s ambitions to drive in Formula 1 next year have recently been dealt a blow. But there is still hope.
Munich – There were two fewer cockpit seats. Before the Grand Prix in Austria next weekend, two contract extensions were making the rounds in Formula 1. This has far-reaching consequences for Mick Schumacher – and for Audi .
Lance Stroll extends contract with Aston Martin
Lance Stroll will continue to drive for Aston Martin in the future. Fernando Alonso’s teammate extended his contract for another two years and will therefore be chasing points for the British racing team in 2025 and beyond.
However, this personnel decision was by no means surprising, as the 25-year-old is the son of Lawrence Stroll, a Canadian multi-billionaire and also the majority owner of Aston Martin.
Alpine announces contract extension with Pierre Gasly
The far more exciting news, however, came from the Alpine team. The racing team, which belongs to the French car manufacturer Renault, announced shortly before the race at the Austrian Red Bull Ring that Pierre Gasly’s contract had been extended for another three years.
“The story continues,” Pierre Gasly wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I am very proud to announce that I have signed a new contract with Alpine to continue our journey together and achieve our common goals in Formula 1. There is still a lot of work ahead of us, but I am more motivated than ever to give the team my best. Full throttle!”
Gasly extends contract with Alpine – setback for Mick Schumacher
The 28-year-old Frenchman’s contract extension at Alpine intensifies the race for available cockpits in Formula 1 – especially for Mick Schumacher.
The son of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher had hoped for a place in the Alpine racing car for next season. The news of Flavio Briatore, who is making his comeback in the premier class of motorsport as Alpine’s chief advisor after around 15 years , further fuelled speculation about a Schumacher engagement.
Mick Schumacher still hopes for a future in Formula 1
With Gasly’s contract extension, at least one of the two cockpits for 2025 has now been taken. However, Mick does not have to completely give up his hopes of racing for Alpine next season . The decision as to who will be Gasly’s teammate in the future has not yet been made.
Esteban Ocon, who has only managed to score three World Championship points this year, will have to vacate his place in the Alpine car at the end of the season . A successor for Ocon has not yet been found. “We will take our time deciding on Pierre’s team-mate and are excited about the options we have on the table,” explained team boss Bruno Famin in connection with Gasly’s contract extension. Perhaps Mick Schumacher could be an option.
Gasly’s contract extension at Alpine also has consequences for Audi
But Gasly’s decision also has consequences for Audi. The Ingolstadt-based company, which will take over the Sauber team in 2026, is still looking for a teammate for Nico Hülkenberg. As an experienced driver, Gasly seemed to be a suitable candidate for the cockpit alongside “Hulk” for a long time, but this possibility is now off the table.