Haas confirm driver line-up for 2022

Haas

Haas confirm driver line-up for 2022

Haas will continue with Schumacher and Mazepin for a second season

Sam Hall

Thursday 23 September 2021 10:33 Updated: 10:42

Haas has confirmed Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin will remain with the team into the new aerodynamic era of Formula 1 in 2022.

At the end of last season, Haas replaced seasoned veterans Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen with rookies Schumacher and Mazepin.

Despite a difficult year with the team that has yet to score a point, team principal Guenther Steiner has opted for continuity heading into 2022.

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“We knew we wanted continuity behind the wheel in 2022 and I’m happy to confirm exactly that with Mick Schumacher and Nikita Mazepin competing for Uralkali Haas F1 Team next year,” said Steiner.

“2021 has afforded both drivers the opportunity to learn Formula 1 – and as rookies – they’ve done a lot of that this year. It’s been a tough season for sure with the package we’ve had, but at the same time they’ve both embraced the challenge and worked closely with the team to learn our processes and adapt to the rigours of a Formula 1 campaign and all that brings – both internally and externally.

“Now as we look ahead to the 2022 season, we’re confident we can move forward as a team and give Mick and Nikita a competitive race package to make the next step in their Formula 1 careers.”

Schumacher’s name was one of many that had been linked to the current vacancy at Alfa Romeo alongside Valtteri Bottas but Thursday’s announcement has put an end to any speculation.

“By being part of the Formula 1 field, I am living my dream,” explained Schumacher.

“The first year together with Haas F1 is very exciting and instructive, and I'm sure I can bring all the experience I've gained into the coming year.

"New technical regulations, the impressive ambition of the entire Haas F1 team and the support of Ferrari - of course I believe this will bring us closer to the field in the 2022 season and we will be able to fight for points.

“I'm looking forward to being part of a team that is getting stronger, and I'll do everything I can from my side to move us forward. Finally, I would like to thank the Ferrari Driver Academy for the trust they continue to give me and the support they have shown me over the years.”

Mazepin currently sits at the foot of the drivers' standings with a best result of 14th scored in Azerbaijan.

“I’m very excited for next year, the new car and simply just to get the opportunity with Haas F1 Team and grow together with them," said the Russian I think we will come out strong next year.”