Sebastian Vettel has claimed that he will not tell Mick Schumacher, the son of legendary driver Michael Schumacher, how to drive even though the duo have previously spoken of the four-time champion's mentorship of the new Ferrari driver academy recruit.
Schumacher signed with Ferrari as a development driver this year, but will continue his driving career in Formula 2 with Prema Racing for the moment.
Mick's father, Michael, previously took Vettel under his wing, and Vettel is now returning the favour to the younger Schumacher, but he thinks it is important that Mick blazes his own trail in the sport.
“I won’t give him tips on how to drive. It’s best for him to gain his own experience,” he told Bild.
“Besides, I don’t need to tell him how high the expectations are for him. He doesn’t need anyone to tell him that.
“I just hope he gets the time to take the last step to Formula 1 at his own pace and that he doesn’t rush things. I think he’ll manage.”
Another recent Ferrari recruit is simulator driver Pascal Wehrlein, and Vettel is proud that another German has joined the Scuderia ranks.
“I didn’t sign his contract,” Vettel smiled.
“But when the topic of sim drivers was brought up, I mentioned his name.
“I get along nicely with Pascal and he has the potential. I’m sure he’ll help us progress. It makes me proud for sure, because there are enough reasons for us to be proud of our country.
“When it comes to learning, Germany has created some good opportunities, perhaps the best of all of them.”