Sebastian Vettel accepts he’ll forever remain behind Michael Schumacher in the list of Germany’s best Formula 1 drivers.
The man from Heppenheim arrived on the grid in 2007 and was dubbed ‘Baby Schumi’ before winning four F1 titles of his own with Red Bull between 2010-2013.
Yet despite that, Vettel was never able to capture the imagination of his homeland like Schumacher did but he understands why.
“I am and will continue to be Germany’s number two in Formula 1 and I have no problem with that,” he told German broadcaster ARD.
“I believe Schumacher’s achievements were unique and remain unique. It was he who made the breakthrough in F1 racing in Germany.”
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Vettel wasn’t alone the only German to struggle following in Michael’s footsteps with Nico Rosberg also failing to attract the crowds to Hockenheim during his heyday with Mercedes.
“Anyone who came after Schumacher is in line behind him,” the Ferrari driver continued.
“I see it very naturally and I am proud of my home country. I have no problem saying that I am proud to drive for Germany,” Vettel concluded.
Ironically, perhaps the only man who could put fans in the stands is Michael’s son Mick Schumacher, who completed a special demonstration in his father’s 2004 Ferrari at this year’s race.
But that could take some time as the German Grand Prix is not included in 2020 and faces stiff competition to return in the future.