Mick Schumacher Explores a New Sport Amid Criticism Faced by Legendary Dad Michael and Max Verstappen Over Safety Concerns
MICK SCHUMACHER is contemplating a surprising transition to IndyCar racing.
The German racer, son of the iconic seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher, last participated in F1 in 2022 with Haas.
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Credit: Getty
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Credit: Reuters
Since then, he has shifted focus to racing for Alpine in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Now, the 26-year-old is looking toward the IndyCar series across the ocean.
It has recently been disclosed that Schumacher will drive for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing during a test at the esteemed Indianapolis Motor Speedway on October 13.
This move explores territory that neither his father Michael nor four-time F1 champion Max Verstappen dared to tread.
The oval circuit holds an official top speed record of 236.986mph set by Arie Luyendyk in 1996, surpassing F1’s top speed record of 234.9mph set by Valtteri Bottas in 2016.
Additionally, the Indianapolis 500 spans 500 miles and operates without power steering, a crucial assistance for F1 drivers.
Schumacher Sr has commented on the hazards of competing in the Indy500, stating: “At the speed you drive so close to the walls, the chassis can’t possibly survive an accident unscathed.
“This could lead to severe injuries to your legs or even worse.”
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“I see no reason for that. I have nothing to prove there.”
F1 hosted races at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway from 2000 to 2007, during which the Ferrari icon won five races, including four in a row from 2003 to 2006.
An IndyCar driver was launched into a fence during a massive multi-car crash at an Ontario race, leading to a red flag to clear the debris-filled street.
The year after his first F1 retirement in 2007, rookie Lewis Hamilton claimed the race victory.
Verstappen has recently acquired his permit to race at the Nurburgring Nordschleife and won on his endurance racing debut at the track known as “the green hell.”
However, while discussing IndyCar, the 28-year-old said: “The risk of a serious accident is simply high. Crashing into a wall at over 320km/h is no joke.”
Nonetheless, Schumacher Jr is looking forward to his test drive.
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Credit: AFP
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Credit: Getty
He shared: “I am incredibly excited for my first IndyCar test.
“A massive thanks to the Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing team for this chance.
“Driving this car at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the inaugural time—a historic track my dad has raced on—is thrilling, and I am eager to explore its distinct characteristics.
“I look forward to learning about the unique qualities of this race car, which is different yet somewhat similar to what I’m accustomed to driving, and I am keen to gain experience in the varied motorsport landscape.
“It’s a privilege to grasp just how physically demanding it can be, as I’ve heard a lot about it.
“As a fan of single-seater racing, this initial IndyCar test will undoubtedly be a memorable experience, and I am very much looking forward to operating a vehicle where I can clearly see my wheels.”
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