McLaren Reportedly in Talks to Sign Alpine’s Mick Schumacher

McLaren Reportedly in Talks to Sign Alpine’s Mick Schumacher

McLaren are reportedly in advanced discussions to secure the services of World Endurance Championship (WEC) star Mick Schumacher, with the British team looking to strengthen their long-term motorsport ambitions. According to reports from The Race, negotiations between McLaren and the German driver have been described as “positive,” raising the possibility of a significant career shift for Schumacher away from Alpine.

The 26-year-old is currently competing in the hypercar class of the WEC with Alpine, where he has enjoyed a highly promising season. In just five races so far in 2025, Schumacher has achieved three podium finishes, further establishing himself as one of the brightest stars in endurance racing. His form has reignited interest in his services across multiple racing categories, with McLaren now emerging as a serious contender for his signature.

Schumacher made the bold decision at the end of 2024 to step away from his role as Mercedes’ Formula 1 reserve driver, a position he had held since his exit from Haas in 2022. Instead of remaining on the sidelines, restricted largely to simulator duties, Schumacher opted to focus full-time on his WEC commitments. At the time, both he and Mercedes emphasized that he considered himself “first and foremost a racer,” and he was determined to compete in environments where he could actively showcase his abilities on track.

That decision has since paid off. Having impressed Alpine in his debut endurance season, Schumacher quickly earned a contract extension and has continued to deliver consistent and competitive results. His performances have not only raised his profile within the WEC but have also attracted attention from other racing organizations, including teams in IndyCar.

McLaren’s interest is particularly significant as the team looks to the future. Reports suggest Schumacher would play a leading role in Woking’s new endurance racing project, which is scheduled for a development year in 2026 before a full competitive entry in 2027. The German’s experience and growing reputation in the hypercar category could make him an ideal candidate to spearhead the program.

While Schumacher’s chances of returning to Formula 1 appear slim—especially after being overlooked by the new Cadillac F1 team for their 2026 entry—his stock remains high in other areas of international motorsport. By aligning himself with McLaren, Schumacher could not only continue to build his career in endurance racing but also link up with one of the most storied names in global racing history.

For Schumacher, the opportunity represents both continuity and growth. His tenure in Formula 1, which spanned two seasons with Haas between 2021 and 2022, was marked by flashes of potential but also struggles with consistency in a challenging car. Since leaving F1, however, he has demonstrated resilience and a willingness to carve out a new path for himself—qualities that McLaren are said to value highly as they prepare for their next chapter.

The coming months will likely prove decisive. If McLaren can finalize a deal, Schumacher would be tasked not just with competing, but with helping shape a project from the ground up. It would be another major milestone in a career already defined by adaptability and perseverance.

Whether he remains with Alpine, switches to McLaren, or even explores opportunities in IndyCar, one thing is clear: Mick Schumacher has reestablished himself as a racer in demand, proving that life beyond Formula 1 can still offer prestige, opportunity, and success.