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One chance to secure 2021 race seat? Why Mick Schumacher can't afford to stuff F1 test

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Mick Schumacher (Mick Schumacher / Instagram)
Mick Schumacher (Mick Schumacher / Instagram)

• Mick Schumacher will drive for Alfa Romeo during First Practice for the Eifel GP.

• Schumacher is linked to driving for Alfa Romeo in 2021.

• Antonio Giovinazzi could be replaced in favour of the youngster.

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Mick Schumacher will make his Formula 1 debut today (9 October) when he drives Antonio Giovinazzi's Alfa Romeo during the first practice session for the Eifel Grand Prix. The race, staged around the famous Nürburgring, is the eleventh round of a season that's been turned on its head by the dreaded Covid-19 pandemic.

But for Schumacher, this will be an opportunity to show that he has what it takes to compete at motorsport's highest level. Currently leading the Formula 2 championship standings, Schumacher has come a long way following a relatively lacklustre 2019 season in which many had thought that he did not have what it takes to be racing.

Despite critics saying that he'll only be considered for an F1 seat because of his surname, young Mick has gone and proved all wrong through stellar performances in 2020. So much so that he will drive an Alfa Romeo F1 car.

Reason to be optimistic?

In 2020, Schumacher has set about proving that he is more than just his father's son. Sure, the affiliation to the great Michael Schumacher has opened many a door for the young driver, but this year was his year to shine, which is exactly what he did.

Though rumours of a 2021 seat at either Haas or Alfa Romeo have been swirling around, Schumacher Jr. still had to prove his worth. If today's first drive goes to plan and he manages to put a competitive time on the table, then the door to F1 could open even more.

Furthermore, should he sign with Alfa Romeo for 2021, as it is widely expected, Schumacher's affiliation to Ferrari could ensure that he gets a call-up to the main team as early as 2023. Carlos Sainz Jr. will join Ferrari next year on a multi-year deal but could be replaced by Ferrari's greatest driver's son in a few years - provided the Red Barron's son shows that he belongs in F1.


Do you think Mick Schumacher will one day join Ferrari and (perhaps) even win the F1 championship? Email us.

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