MICK SCHUMACHER is well on his way to following in his father’s footsteps after being crowned F2 world champion.
The son of legendary seven-time world champion Michael, the 21-year-old clinched the title in Bahrain, despite his 18th place finish.
Mick Schumacher has been crowned F2 world championCredit: Getty Images – Getty
An error on the opening lap meant he dropped down the positions but British rival Callum Ilott failed to take advantage with a 10th place finish.
It meant Mick won the title by 14-points with Ilott needing to finish in the top two places.
It was his last race in F2 before he moves to Formula One with team Haas next season.
After the race, the rising German superstar said: “To be champion, I owe it all to my team!
“I’m a bit overwhelmed at the minute, it’s going to take a few days – I’m just so happy and grateful!
“To Callum, he gave me a run for his money – it’s been tough but so enjoyable at the same time. So big thank you to him.”
Gracious in defeat, Ilott praised his competitor on his terrific season.
He said: “Can’t say I didn’t give it my all, what a year it’s been.
Mick is mobbed by his team as they celebrate his achievementsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
F1 legend Michael Schumacher with a young Mick
“So much speed, some great memories and I couldn’t have done it without @VirtuosiRacing. Pushing this man @SchumacherMick all the way to the end. Very well done to him and @PREMA_Team.”
Schumacher will partner fellow rookie Nikita Mazepin, the son of a Russian billionaire, next season.
Sharing his joy at the step up to F1, he said: “The prospect of being on the Formula 1 grid next year makes me incredibly happy and I’m simply speechless.
“I would like to thank Haas F1 Team, Scuderia Ferrari and the Ferrari Driver Academy for placing their trust in me.
“I also want to acknowledge and extend my love to my parents – I know that I owe them everything.
“I have always believed that I would realise my dream of Formula 1.
“A huge thank you must also go to all the great motorsport fans out there who have supported me throughout my career.
“I will give it my all, as I always do, and I look forward to going on this journey together with Haas F1 and them.”
Watch Michael Schumacher and Jos Verstappen talk about kids’ future in F1 16 YEARS ago as Mick and Max prepare for 2021
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
