Sebastian Vettel says his mentorship of Mick Schumacher will only include guidance as it is “better” for him to learn through personal experiences.
The two drivers are now under the same umbrella after the 19-year-old joined the Ferrari Academy earlier this year, with Vettel also returning the favours given to him by Mick’s father, seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher.
This week, the young German prepared for his next step by topping the F2 pre-season test at Jerez with Prema, and moments like that are what his fellow countryman believes will help Schumacher the most.
“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.”
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Those expectations including following his father to F1 as soon as possible, but that is something Vettel thinks Mick shouldn’t worry about.
“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,” he concluded.
Schumacher isn’t the only German to be making a new home at Maranello in 2019, with Pascal Wehrlein, a former Mercedes junior and current Formula E driver, joining as a development driver.
“I didn’t sign his contract, but when the topic of sim drivers was brought up, I mentioned his name,” Vettel revealed.
“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.”