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via Imago

via Imago

Mick Schumacher, the son of legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher, has been making his way in the sport, but he is missing out on crucial guidance from his father, who has been in a coma since a skiing accident in 2013. The pressure on Mick is mounting as he tries to live up to his father’s legacy in Formula 1, and his recent struggles have only added to the burden. Michael is widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history, and living up to his legacy is a daunting task for any driver, let alone his own son.

Mick drove for Haas for two years—2021 and 2022. In 2023, he was replaced by Nico Hulkenberg after his boss, Guenther Steiner, blamed him for causing enormous crashes. He is now a reserve driver for Mercedes, thanks to Toto Wolff’s friendship with his father. While this is an excellent opportunity for Mick, the absence of his father’s guidance is undoubtedly affecting him.

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Michael’s former teammate, Johnny Herbert, spoke about the situation. Michael and Johnny were teammates at Benetton from 1992 to 1994, during which they won two World Championships. Johnny’s personal relationship with Michael may have added to his understanding of Mick’s situation.

As quoted by the Express, he said, “Michael Schumacher’s health is also very sad for Mick. It can’t be easy for Mick because of what his dad achieved. Being around your dad when you’re younger, then of course his dad is not there to enjoy it and guide him. There have been a lot of people who have helped Mick over the years, but I think it is a situation that he would have loved his dad to be there for him.”

READ MORE: 18 Years Later, Fans Relive Fernando Alonso’s “Epic” Battle That Dethroned Michael Schumacher in F1: “Was Relentless”

Over the years, the junior Schumacher has been supported by many. Toto Wolff ensured he stays in the sport and has voiced his support several times for the 24-year-old, whereas Sebastian Vettel has been alongside him every step of the way. The whole F1 fraternity has sympathized with Mick over the hard turn in his career. His struggles on the track have been noticeable, and it is easy to see that the pressure is getting to him. He needs time and space to develop his skills and find his footing in the sport.

The pressure of Michael Schumacher’s legacy got the better of Mick

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Having won the Formula 2 championship before coming to F1 was supposed to make things easier for Mick. However, the name that he fights for comes with tremendous pride as well as pressure. All eyes were set on him before his grand entry into the sport, which, according to Herbert, affected Mick’s stint with Haas.

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Johnny said, “He was under a hell of a lot of pressure and did it get the better of him? Maybe. Did he do enough when he was up against Kevin Magnussen (at Haas)? Probably not. That’s why it didn’t work out. He never created that opportunity for himself to continue as a racer.”

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WATCH THIS STORY: Why Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello Wore Red Wigs in 2000

Now, there aren’t plenty of options or chances for Mick to prove his name and make his family proud. The driver must grab each opportunity at Mercedes and make an impact, just like Nyck de Vries did back in 2022 at Monza.