Mick Schumacher Departs Alpine WEC, Eyes IndyCar or Cadillac Future

Mick Schumacher has officially parted ways with the Alpine endurance team after two seasons in the FIA World Endurance Championship, a move that opens significant doors for the young German driver. His departure, announced with mutual appreciation, comes amid growing speculation about his next career move, with strong links to IndyCar and a potential dual role with Cadillac.

Why it matters:

Schumacher's exit from Alpine signifies a pivotal moment in his career, freeing him to explore new avenues that could lead to a full-time racing return in a top-tier single-seater series. After a period away from Formula 1, securing a competitive seat in IndyCar or a factory role with Cadillac could reignite his trajectory and position him for future opportunities, potentially even an F1 comeback.

The Details:

• Schumacher helped Alpine secure its first WEC podium with the A424 prototype, adding further top-three finishes at Imola and Spa during his two seasons.
• Both Schumacher and Alpine issued polite farewells, expressing gratitude for their time together, suggesting an amicable split.
• Cadillac Connection: Prior to the split, Schumacher was heavily linked to a dual role: racing in the WEC with Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA and serving as a reserve driver for Cadillac's future Formula 1 operation.
• IndyCar Test: In October, Schumacher completed an eye-opening IndyCar test with Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, where he openly discussed the appeal of America's premier single-seater series.
  • He told RACER that IndyCar "has to be considered seriously" due to its single-seater format, 17-race calendar, and the appeal of being in his "own car."
• Alpine has already begun filling its 2026 seats, with António Félix da Costa announced, further indicating Schumacher's departure aligns with his pursuit of new opportunities.

What's next:

Schumacher's future now appears to be a choice between several compelling options. The strong hints from his IndyCar test and the prior links to Cadillac suggest he is weighing his options carefully.

• IndyCar: A move to IndyCar would offer him a full-time, high-profile single-seater racing role, which he has publicly expressed interest in.
• Cadillac: The Cadillac link could provide a pathway back to F1, albeit as a reserve driver initially, combined with WEC racing experience.
• The timing of his Alpine exit indicates a deliberate move to clear his schedule, suggesting a significant career decision is imminent. For the first time in years, Schumacher appears unconstrained and on the brink of a new chapter in his racing career.