With two podium finishes in a row last weekend in Budapest – Ferrari Junior Mick Schumacher (21) is making progress in Formula 2. And that is how it should be. Because this year will decide whether the son of seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher will drive in Formula 1 in 2021.
We are talking about a seat at Alfa Romeo instead of Ferrari up-and-coming Antonio Giovinazzi. But Schumi junior has even more competition internally at Ferrari. Significant: Four of the Scuderia Academy’s juniors are among the top six in the Formula 2 overall standings. In addition to the championship leader and newcomer Robert Shwartzman and Mick Schumacher (currently fourth), there is also Callum Illott (second) and Marcus Armstrong (in sixth place).
Robert Shwartzman in particular could be dangerous for Mick Schumacher. As a rookie, the Russian has already won two races, most recently in an impressive manner at the Hungaroring. Red Bull talent scout Helmut Marko said for F1-Insider.com: “He is intelligent, fast, gentle with the tyres, very special” – Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko is quoted about the new rising star – “If I were Ferrari, I would put him in the Alfa next year.” – Helmut Marko added.
But Mick has his sights on the seat too. Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto is still reluctant to make predictions. When asked about Schumi junior and his Formula 1 ambitions on Sunday after the race, he said: “Mick has performed well, better than last year. It is important that he shows progress in his second Formula 2 season. He performed well in Hungary. But it is still too early to make decisions for next year.”
As always, Mick Schumacher himself takes things step by step: “I want to be one of the top drivers in Formula 2. My goal is to be a complete racing driver.”
His uncle Ralf Schumacher added: “The expectations for Mick are high. But he also expects a lot from himself. He does it well and keeps getting better.”
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