Mick Schumacher joins F2 with Prema as German moves step closer to emulating legendary father
- The 19-year-old son of Michael Schumacher says move is ‘logical step’
- Formula Three European champion in Abu Dhabi for F2 testing this week
The 19-year-old son of Michael Schumacher says move is a ‘logical step’ with Formula Three European champion in Abu Dabi for F2 testing this week
Mick Schumacher has taken another step towards emulating his seven-time Formula One world champion father Michael Schumacher after making the jump to Formula Two.
The 19-year-old, who finished the Formula Three season as European champion with Prema Powerteam, announced on Tuesday he will graduate to race in F2 next year.
“I’m really looking forward to contesting my next season with Prema in FIA Formula 2 – a logical step on my sporting path in my view, because I want to further improve my technical experience and driving skills,” Schumacher said.
The German, who won eight races, seven poles and had 14 podiums in F3 this season, was at the F2 season finale in Abu Dhabi last weekend and will test with Prema this week at the Yas Marina circuit.
“For me, it was very clear to go into Formula 2 with Prema,” Schumacher said. “I can’t thank the Prema family enough for what we achieved together as a team, especially this year, how we continued to develop together.
“I’m also really excited to drive the Formula 2 tests in Abu Dhabi.”
Winning his first major title in F3 means Schumacher is already qualified to race in F1. But he has chosen to continue his development in the feeder series which saw this year’s top three F2 championship finishers – George Russell, Lando Norris and Alexander Albon – all secure seats for the 2019 F1 season.
“We are proud to welcome Mick to our Formula 2 operation for 2019,” Prema team principal Rene Rosin said.
“He is an extremely talented and dedicated racer, working with him is a pleasure and we can’t wait to begin this adventure together.
“This championship is not an easy one due to its learning curve for rookies, especially with the introduction of the new car, but we think that Mick has the maturity and skills needed to make it.”
Five-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, who is looking to emulate Michael Schumacher in his own right, believes it is inevitable that the legendary driver’s son will make it to the top level.
“There will 100 per cent be a Schumacher back in Formula One, partly because of the name, but secondly because he’s doing a great job,’ the Mercedes driver said in October.
Michael Schumacher has a record 91 race wins in F1, but has not been seen in public since suffering severe head injuries in a skiing accident in France in December 2013.
