Mick Schumacher ‘better than half of current F1 grid’ as search for seat continues

Former Ferrari and FIA boss Jean Todt believes Mick Schumacher is “better than half the current Formula 1 drivers” as the German continues to look for a way back into the sport.

Schumacher has almost been out of the sport for as long as he was in it and his exile looks all but certain to continue into 2025. But Todt believes the ability of the 25-year-old is higher than half of the current F1 grid.

Jean Todt defends Mick Schumacher despite F1 frustrations
Todt was the team principal of Schumacher’s father, Michael, and is a close family friend, maybe suggesting why his view is the opposite of the general consensus.

But despite Schumacher’s difficulty in returning to the grid, Todt claimed the current Mercedes reserve driver was “better than half the current Formula 1 drivers.”

“It’s no secret that I love the Schumacher family – and therefore Mick too. I want to see him achieve his dreams and I am convinced that he deserves a seat in Formula 1,” Todt told German outlet Bild.

“He is a very talented driver who undoubtedly has what it takes for the racing series. Otherwise he would not have won Formula 3 and Formula 2. Is he one of the best three or four drivers? I don’t know. But Mick is better than half of the Formula 1 drivers.”

Schumacher has 43 races on his F1 CV but took until his 31st grand prix to score points. He was let go by Haas following two years with the team and was soundly beaten by Kevin Magnussen in their only year as team-mates.

But Todt believes having the surname Schumacher is a “disadvantage” as it places “unfair” pressure on the driver.