Haas rookie Mick Schumacher believes results in his junior career have proved he can handle the increased media attention that comes through being the son of a seven-time world champion.
In joining the Formula 1 grid, Schumacher follows in the footsteps of his father, 91-time race winner Michael Schumacher.
Despite the added pressure to succeed, Schumacher Jr. has driven to championship success in both European F3 and F2, graduating to F1 as the reigning champion of the latter.
Despite his proven ability behind the wheel, Schumacher is aware the pressure he has felt in his career to date will be magnified exponentially this year.
“I think that it’s quite clear that I have been under a spotlight since a very young age," he said. "Especially due to the sport that I do and I love, probably a bit more than usual.
"Nevertheless, I think it is something I have been able to get used to and I would say about myself that I am able to deal with it pretty well.
“I think the results speak for it and I think I will do the same as usual this year, too, and will just try and keep the same rhythm that I have.”
Schumacher, who has been promoted to Haas by the Ferrari Driver Academy where he will form an all-rookie line-up with fellow former F2 driver Nikita Mazepin, insists he is indebted to the Scuderia for his opportunity.
“I’ve been working with the FDA [Ferrari Driver Academy] since the beginning of 2019," he explained. "So it has been obviously a great couple of years and I’ve learned so much through them.
"I think I wouldn’t be here right now without them so I am owing them a great deal to the success that I have had. I’m looking forward to keeping working with them next year.”
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