Mick Schumacher excels in Indycar test.

      "Indycar is the closest I can get to racing"

      Mick Schumacher has made a notable entrance in Indycar testing at Indianapolis, which many view as a symbolic farewell to his aspirations in Formula 1. The 26-year-old German, who was released by Haas after 2022 and struggled to make a comeback despite being Mercedes’ reserve, tested a Dallara-Honda for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing on Monday. Schumacher quickly topped the morning session with a lap time near the pace of the race from the Indycar event that took place at the same circuit in May.

      "I’ve been wanting to test an Indycar for a while," Schumacher stated. "In recent years, I met several Indycar drivers at Formula 1 events, and they all spoke highly of how enjoyable it is. So far, I’m really enjoying it here, and the people are great."

      Unlike Formula 1, Indycars do not feature power steering—a challenge Schumacher embraced. "Some have mentioned that the steering is quite heavy, but honestly, it feels similar to Formula 2. It's physically demanding, but that's exactly what you want," he explained.

      However, Schumacher acknowledged that this transition reflects not only his passion but also the reality of his circumstances. "Indycar is the closest option to what I can still race," he shared. "Clearly, my goal over the past couple of years has been to return to Formula 1, but that door hasn’t opened. Thus, I want to race again in single-seaters, and this choice seems good."

      He reassured that no full-time agreement has been made yet, but the test will assist him in determining "where I want to be in 2026." Rahal Letterman, which currently has Graham Rahal and Louis Foster in its lineup, is reportedly open to discussions. Schumacher commented, "The decision rests with both parties. We all have a few days and weeks to ponder it and explore what opportunities might arise in the future. But for now, everything is going well."

      Despite cautions from various European figures—including his uncle Ralf Schumacher—about the risks associated with oval racing, Mick stated he wouldn't dismiss the idea. "Definitely, I’m eager to try it and see what it involves," he said. "If I were to commit to Indycar, I’d want to do so wholeheartedly."

      With a smile reflecting on the fact that he is driving at the same location where his father Michael secured five victories with Ferrari, Schumacher simply added: "I’m pleased to be here and excited to drive the car. It’s enjoyable. I want to relish racing and discover where I feel most at home."