Rubens Barrichello and Sebastian Vettel returned to the wheel of a historic Ferrari during the Formula 1 Italian GP weekend. The two drove Michael Schumacher’s F2002 in Monza, in one of the main tributes prepared by the team for the German.
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Barrichello, Schumacher’s former teammate, was responsible for taking the F2002 to the track on Saturday. On Sunday, it was Vettel’s turn to take the car, complete several laps in Monza, and even do some burnouts in front of the fans.
The experience had a strong emotional impact on the four-time world champion. “I have mixed feelings. On one hand, it’s a beautiful car to drive, a wonderful machine. But much more than that, it’s Michael’s car,” said Vettel. “He’s not here today, but I felt him a lot during these laps and I hope you also heard and felt him.”
Vettel also highlighted the connection he maintains with motorsport even after leaving F1 at the end of 2022. “I love racing. I know I stopped racing, but in my heart I’m still a lover of this sport, these cars, these people, and the fans who make everything so special,” he said. The German achieved 14 wins and 55 podiums during his time at Ferrari.
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Speaking specifically about the F2002, Vettel highlighted how quickly he sensed the character of the car. “It doesn’t take many laps to feel the soul of a car, and immediately you realize this one was special. It practically shouted at you: ‘Go, go, go!’”
Ferrari dedicated the Monza weekend to Schumacher’s legacy. After Barrichello’s participation on Saturday and Vettel’s on Sunday, the German summed up the meaning of the action: “Today is Michael’s moment, and we send all our love and emotions.”
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