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Schumacher son's big step towards emulating F1 legend

The son of legendary Formula One driver Michael Schumacher has taken a major step in his quest to emulate his famous father.

Mick Schumacher recently toasted success after winning the European Formula 3 championship.

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Now, the 19-year-old has made the decision to step up to the next level and compete with the Prema Racing team in Formula Two.

Mick Schumacher is a chip off the old block. Pic: Getty
Mick Schumacher is a chip off the old block. Pic: Getty

Mick Schumacher claimed eight wins, seven pole positions, and 14 podium finishes as he won the overall F3 title in October.

Prema Racing said on Tuesday his move to F2 “represented the next natural step” for the son of the seven-time Formula One legend.

Schumacher, who joined the team in 2016, has worked his way up from F4.

“In all his racing endeavors, his progress has been relentless, which highlights a very good potential for the upcoming challenge,” the team said.

Schumacher will get his first taste of F2 at the postseason tests from Thursday to Saturday in Abu Dhabi.

The young Schumacher’s father, Michael, suffered head injuries in a skiing accident in 2013, and has reportedly been bed-ridden ever since.

Mick reveals ‘idol’ dad’s influence on his life

The Formula 1 legend’s family are notoriously private about his condition, but Mick recently gave a heartbreaking interview about his father.

Describing Michael as his idol, the 19-year-old opened up about how his father would take him to the local track as a child, even if it was closed.

Speaking in an RTL documentary called ‘Schumacher – The Next Generation’, Mick said: “We went there to practice driving.

“Even on days when the track was closed in Kerpen, we went there and were allowed to race our laps there.

“All the refining we did to be faster was also a lot.

“That was always the best time.”

Michael Schumacher and wife Corinna in 2005. (Image: STR/AFP/Getty Images)
Michael Schumacher and wife Corinna in 2005. (Image: STR/AFP/Getty Images)

The F3 driver said there came a time when his father sat him down and asked him if he wanted to be a professional driver.

“Dad finally asked what we wanted to do,” he said.

“Whether we want to do it professionally or whether we want to do this just for fun, as a hobby.

“Of course, I said it very clearly, I want to do it professionally.

“I always want to compare myself to the best, and my father is the best. He’s also my idol.

“I’m pleased if I can compare myself to him. Many world champions compare themselves to my father.

With agencies