Sebastian Vettel experienced a very emotional moment at the Italian Grand Prix of Formula 1. Last Sunday (8), he had the opportunity to drive the Ferrari F2002 in a tribute to Michael Schumacher.
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The visit to Monza brought a series of memories of the seven-time world champion, as 2026 marks 30 years since his first season defending the Maranello team. Therefore, the team made a special paint job and Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc also wore overalls with seven stars, each representing a title.
Not only that, Rubens Barrichello, Michael’s former teammate, and Vettel, a close friend of the driver, had the opportunity to drive the F2002, the car from the 1996 season. The Brazilian drove on Saturday and the German on Sunday.
Shortly before the laps around the Monza circuit, the four-time F1 champion said that “above all, it is for my friend and to remember that moment, which was very emotional.”
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“He is my childhood hero; later, we developed a deep friendship connection, became very close and shared many good memories. I think we would much rather see him driving today than me, I myself think so. I am looking forward to the moment in the car, as I believe it will be an occasion where we will feel Michael’s presence and what he represents, and we will be able to hear him,” he said.
“I think there is much more involved than just a few laps. It is his car, but it is a champion car. It is a Ferrari. In Monza, in front of the tifosi. I believe there is something much deeper that creates this connection with me. I mean, I love the sport. I don’t race anymore, but I still love it, and I will probably love racing as long as I live. That is why this means so much to me and why these moments are so special,” he concluded.
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