P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mick Schumacher has been absent from the F1 grid since the end of the 2022 campaign – however Mattia Binotto has suggested he could make a return next year.
Audi’s COO and CTO Mattia Binotto confirmed that Mick Schumacher is still being considered as a potential option for the team. Audi is set to join the grid in 2026 by taking over the Sauber-run outfit currently operating under the Stake F1 moniker. While Nico Hulkenberg has been signed on a multi-year deal for next season, the team has yet to announce the driver to compete alongside him. Binotto mentioned that Valtteri Bottas, Franco Colapinto, and Gabriel Bortoleto are also potential options, but Schumacher is in the running. The Stake seat is one of the two remaining unconfirmed seats for next year, with RB also yet to finalize its complete driver lineup. Binotto emphasized that they are in no rush to decide on the second driver, looking for a blend of experience and young talent to lead the team to success.
