Mick Schumacher is expressing conspicuous optimism regarding his prospects of rejoining the Formula 1 grid.
The 25-year-old, son of F1 great Michael Schumacher, had his racing career at Haas curtailed after two unremarkable seasons, amid ongoing critiques from his then-boss, Gunther Steiner.
In 2023, Schumacher took on the role of Mercedes' primary reserve driver, later merging this with a comeback to competitive racing with the Alpine WEC team starting in 2024.
Following his Pirelli tire test with McLaren last week, Schumacher participated in what media termed a 'shootout' test with Jack Doohan for Alpine, driving their two-year-old F1 car.
"My chances in Formula 1 seem pretty good so far," Schumacher disclosed to AFP.
"It's important for me to return to Formula 1 to show what I can do."
Recently, Alpine renewed Pierre Gasly's contract, placing Schumacher, Doohan, and Carlos Sainz as the main contenders to fill Esteban Ocon's seat next year.
"At the moment, Formula 1 is within reach," Schumacher added.
"I have to make sure that I do not become too confident, continue to persevere, and make sure that there is a plan B in case it does not work out."
While some speculate that 2025 might be Schumacher's final shot at an F1 racing revival, he remains undeterred.
"My plan was always Formula 1, now we have to wait and see what opportunities present themselves to me," he stated.
"I have decided that I will wait for Formula 1 as long as necessary."
