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The Schumacher name is back in Formula 1, with the son of legendary driver Michael Schumacher set to make his debut in Sakhir this weekend.
Mick Schumacher became one of the sport’s most sought-after young talents after winning the Formula 2 Championship last year.
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Despite speculation he would sign with Alfa Romeo, Haas snapped up the German prodigy on a multi-year contract.
He will partner with Russian driver Nikita Mazepin this year, the rookie pair having already competed against each other in F2.
“It’s an amazing feeling being with the team and knowing this is it and I’m getting close to my first race in F1,” Schumacher told BBC.
“I got my pass — you know, the proper red F1 pass — and I was like, ‘Woah!’
“I remember seeing my dad having one and I was always, like, I wanted one, but obviously I didn’t get one. I have one now and it’s amazing and I am really looking forward to it.”
Motorsports pundits have already noted Mick’s physical resemblance to his father — the pair not only look identical, but share the same physique honed by hours spent in the gym, as well as a love for playing football and tennis.
Mick reportedly even walks like the seven-time world champion.
Michael was 22 when he made his F1 debut at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1991 — Mick will be the same age for his maiden race this weekend.
Mick told Bild in December: “I’m OK with that; all the questions and comparisons with my father do not bother me.
“For me, he is the all-time best in this sport, to which he has given his all. I don’t see why I should disregard that.”
Although Mick still has plenty to prove, there’s a possibility he could be racing in Ferrari colours within the next few years.
Michael Schumacher tragically suffered severe head trauma in a skiing accident in 2013.
The legendary German driver is thought to be continuing his recovery at a luxury villa in Majorca, but his close friend and ex-Ferrari chief Jean Todt suggested the 52-year-old may be conscious.
In 2015, Mick began racing in formula classes for the first time in ADAC F4.
A switch to Prema Power team followed in 2016, with the Italian team known for their links to the prestigious Ferrari Academy — an initiative set up by the F1 team to promote young talent within its organisation.
A year later, Mick competed in the FIA F3 European Championship, finishing the season in 12th place, with his best finish being a third place at Monza.
He graduated to F2 in 2019, where he proved he’s ready for the step-up to F1.
The Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled to commence on Monday morning at 2am AEDT, where Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo will be making his debut with McLaren.
— with The Sun
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