Sebastian Vettel believes that Williams should strongly consider signing his friend and former Formula 1 competitor, Mick Schumacher.
While some speculate that Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson is the leading candidate to replace the endangered Logan Sargeant as early as this weekend's race at Monza, Schumacher's supporters are passionately advocating for the 25-year-old German.
"Of course I hope that Mick gets a second chance, because there is a lot that speaks in his favour," Vettel, who has long been a mentor to Schumacher, told the German broadcaster RTL.
"He has two years of experience as an F1 driver and has matured a lot as a person since then. He has gained valuable insights from the different teams and has stayed race-fit in the WEC."
"In terms of speed and the overall package, there's more to it than what some people want to remember," the retired four-time world champion added. "He proved in F3 and F2 that he's capable of more. He could get the most out of a Williams and he would deserve the seat," Vettel continued.
According to RTL, Schumacher's mother Corinna, his manager Sabine Kehm, and his uncle Ralf Schumacher are actively working behind the scenes to support his bid. Corinna and Kehm were notably spotted at Zandvoort last weekend.
However, another potential path for Mick, as reported by RTL, could be a move to Indycar with McLaren's team.
Vettel, nonetheless, thinks that a mid-season opportunity with Williams could rekindle Schumacher's Formula 1 prospects.
"If it was my decision," the 37-year-old told Bild newspaper, "I would tend towards Mick. I am a little biased because he is my friend, but in my eyes, he is the best solution.
"He has a very broad technical insight through his current role, including the Mercedes engine, and he's just a good racing driver. I am sure that he could convince Williams," Vettel added, "especially as he knows Formula 1 and these tracks. That is a big advantage."
Another option for Williams is its own junior driver, Franco Colapinto, who is already well-acquainted with the Grove-based team. The 21-year-old Argentinean even got behind the wheel of the 2024 car during Friday practice at Silverstone.
Despite this, Vettel maintains that Schumacher remains the superior choice.
"Mick has the right environment in his private life, but he didn't have that at Haas. Then it is difficult for every driver to get the most out of themselves and the car. But he could do that at Williams now," he said.
"I hope he gets the chance and can show the world what he's capable of. Mick has been unfairly branded because of his two years at Haas. Yes, he made mistakes, but the car wasn't competitive, so many people have the wrong image of him."
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff also hopes to see his F1 reserve driver given the opportunity, indicating he would "appreciate it" if his friend James Vowles made that call.
"I think he deserves a chance," the Austrian remarked. "But it's James Vowles who will decide."
