F1 icon Guenther Steiner branded 'SENSELESS' following Mick Schumacher criticism

Steiner, Schumacher, social — Photo: © IMAGO

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Steiner branded 'SENSELESS' following Schumacher criticism

The German had a firm response to the former Haas boss about his comments about his nephew

Originally written by Tyler Rowlinson. This version is a translation.

Monday 10 June 2024 01:00

Former Formula 1 race winner Ralf Schumacher has hit out at comments made by former Haas boss Guenther Steiner about his nephew Mick Schumacher.

Ralf Schumacher has said that he will not work with Steiner for German broadcast RTL, after 'senseless jabs' made against the Italian's former driver at Haas.

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Mick Schumacher joined Haas in 2021 and endured a difficult spell with the team, where he could only amass 12 points in two seasons with the team.

The German was let go by the American squad at the end of the 2022 season in favour of a more experienced driver lineup and has since acted as a reserve driver for Mercedes.

Guenther Steiner was Mick Schumacher's boss at Haas

Ralf Schumacher responds to Steiner

However, Steiner has been vocal is his criticism of Schumacher, and that Alpine should hold back in considering the son of seven-time champion Michael for their driver lineup for next year.

Now, six-time grand prix winner Ralf has taken to Instagram to defend his nephew and fire back at the former Haas boss for his comments.

"I don't understand these senseless jabs and comments. I don't know if he's the best person to judge that. I'm slowly getting the feeling that he wants to prevent the comeback at Alpine.”

Speaking with F1 Insider, he added: "The team is doing well without him. What would happen if Mick performed well in a possible return to Formula 1 - then Steiner would not be in a good light. I'm slowly starting to believe that's the reason.

“RTL knows my opinion, and so does Mr. Steiner. There will be no more joint performances in front of the camera. In Bahrain, I was able to put our dispute aside, but now that is no longer possible. I am consistent in that.”

Mercedes Haas Alpine Guenther Steiner Mick Schumacher Ralf Schumacher