Mick Schumacher Q&A: Belgian Grand Prix

The first race after some downtime is probably one of the hardest tracks to master – Spa-Francorchamps for the Belgian Grand Prix – round 12 of the FIA ​​Formula 1 World Championship 2021. Eau Rouge, left-right to Raidillon – how is it, to race through such famous – and challenging – corners?

“In general, Spa is my favorite track no matter what. For me, it’s just great to return to Spa. I was there last and last year and of course we had a lot of ups and downs there. It’s definitely one of the most challenging tracks – it’s super long, there are lots of waves, it’s very historic and definitely one of the most special weekends we have on the calendar so I’m really looking forward to going back. We also think of some difficult times, but we always keep everyone, especially Anthoine (Hubert), in our hearts when we go there. “

The Belgian Grand Prix is ​​known for varying weather conditions due to its size – sometimes with rain on some parts of the track and sun on others. How does this affect the car’s set-up for the weekend?

“It doesn’t have a big impact on the car set-up because we can still change it during practice – so we have time to set it up our own way, but conditions are usually changeable as the Grand Prix progresses. Looking forward to getting some rain again which would be nice. If it’s dry, of course I like to continue, so let’s just let it come to us and then we’ll see! “

In 2017, 18-year-old Mick Schumacher got the opportunity to drive his father’s Benetton B194 on demonstration laps around Spa.

In 2017 you drove your father’s masterful Benetton B194 on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his first Formula 1 victory. We’re returning to Spa this weekend for the 30th anniversary of his Formula 1 debut, during your first year in the sport. How was it to drive this car and experience these special moments?

“Driving my father’s Benetton in 2017 was a great experience. Now, five years later, I drive in Formula 1 myself and that is 30 years after my father’s debut. It’s a very special moment for me and my family, I’m really looking forward to going there and putting my stamp on this special route. “

A year later, in 2018, you won your Formula 3 European Championship in Spa. How does it feel to be at the top of the podium on a track like this?

“It was my first Formula 3 victory in 2018 and the first after a good series. It was also my first pole position this year. It was very good to start there because it’s such a special route for us as a family and for me, so I’m very happy to be able to return there and hopefully we can get something out of our hat, that would be great. “