A former Formula 1 driver took aim at Guenther Steiner over his "useless criticism" of Mick Schumacher as he advocated for the German to keep his Haas seat.
Schumacher as about to complete his second season in the sport, both with Haas after being signed as a rookie for the 2021 campaign. He is now waiting nervously to find out whether he will have a third, with his contract expiring at the end of this year.
Haas have been in no rush to make a decision on his future. His seat is the final one on the 2023 grid to be decided, with Steiner believed to be considering a more experienced option in the form of Nico Hulkenberg.
With Audi entering the sport in 2026, joining forces with Sauber, it has been suggested Schumacher would be a top target for the German manufacturer. But dropping out of the sport before then would surely harm his chances of that ever coming into fruition.
Hans-Joachim Stuck, who started 74 F1 races across a six-year career in the sport, believes his compatriot is deserving of his spot in the sport. "Unfortunately for Mick, it is still too early for Audi because they will not be there until 2026," the 71-year-old told ServusTV.
"If he is not confirmed at Haas, he will no longer be in Formula 1. This is very clear. I also say very clearly that Mick belongs in Formula 1.
"A young driver sometimes has to make some mistakes, because he doesn't know what the limit of the car is. Guenther Steiner was wrong to unnecessarily put Mick under pressure with useless criticism. It's crazy to have a seat and not confirm Mick. If he gets the right car, he will be great in the future."
Hulkenberg, who has not held a race seat since 2019, said of the situation this week : "At the end of the day, it's not my decision. I'm not making it. There are still talks. I am relatively optimistic, but we will have to be patient a little longer."
Meanwhile, Ralf Schumacher suggested the idea that, instead of choosing between the two, Haas should axe Kevin Magnussen and hire both. "I hope Haas make a decision soon. Maybe next year we will have two Germans on the Formula 1 grid," said Mick's uncle.
