Nico Hülkenberg returns to F1 and replaces Mick Schumacher at Haas

That's it, this time the grid is complete! Since the formalization of Logan sargeant in Williams (subject to obtaining his Super License), there remained only one unknown concerning the 2023 grid, and it concerned Haas. We actually knew Mick Schumacher in an ejection seat, especially since the Ferrari Driver Academy had made the decision not to renew it.

The son of the Red Baron will therefore find himself without a steering wheel next year. He will in fact leave his place to another German, Nico Hulkenberg (35 years old), who has not been tenured since 2019 at Renault.

The one who was GP2 Series champion in 2009 had still participated in five races since his Renault years. Three with Racing Point in 2020 replacing Sergio Pérez then Lance stroll, and two this season with Aston Martin to compensate for the lack of Sebastian Vettel at the start of the season.

« I am very happy to find a starting place at Haas in 2023, commented Hülkenberg. I feel like I never really left Formula 1. I am very happy to have this opportunity and would like to thank Gene Haas and Guenther Steiner for their trust. We have our work cut out to compete with the other mid-table teams and I can't wait to join this battle ».

After having regretted having trusted two rookies in 2021 and being comforted by the decision to bring back Magnussen this year, Haas is therefore choosing an experienced duo with two boys used to the paddocks. “Hülk” has in fact made 181 Grand Prix starts since his first steps in 2010 with Williams.

« I am naturally delighted to welcome Nico Hülkenberg, said Guenther Steiner, Haas team principal. His experience and knowledge are well established. Nico is an excellent driver in qualifying and very reliable in racing. These qualities, combined with those of Kevin Magnussen gives us a duo of seasoned and credible drivers for next season. We are convinced that they will allow us to progress in the hierarchy ».

The understanding between Magnussen and Hülkenberg should not be a problem, since these two revealed that they had buried the hatchet after several incidents on the track in the past which could have ended in calling names at the microphone of the journalists .

For Schumacher, the future in the premier category is dotted. However, it is rumored that the son of seven-time world champion Michael could bounce back as a reserve in a top team.

« I would like to thank Mick Schumacher for his contribution to the team over the last two years, added Steiner. His potential was well known from the promotional formulas and he continued to grow and develop with Haas. Even if our paths separate, the whole team wishes Mick the best in the next stages of his career ».