Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher lead an emotional tribute to Michael Schumacher

Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher met this weekend in Australia for the Race of Champions 2025, an event where drivers from all disciplines compete in spectacular duels. But beyond the competition, they primarily wanted to share a message: a strong tribute to Michael Schumacher, the seven-time F1 world champion, who has not appeared in public since his skiing accident in 2013.

In front of an emotional audience, the two drivers unfurled a banner full of symbols: « Keep fighting, Michael – We miss you. » An intense moment that brought together all the participants, including Valtteri Bottas, David Coulthard, Sébastien Loeb, and Petter Solberg. Immense respect for the one who has forever marked the history of Formula 1 with 91 wins and 7 world titles.

Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher, a united duo on and off the track

Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher, it was a unique, almost filial relationship. “I grew up admiring him, then I had the chance to race against him… and to learn so many things alongside him,” confided the former Red Bull driver to the media while speaking about his idol. But today, he has also become the mentor of Mick Schumacher, who competed in 43 Grand Prix in F1 with Haas between 2021 and 2022.

The two Germans had already participated together in the Race of Champions 2023, and this year again, they gave it their all. Unfortunately, they were defeated in the final of the Nations Cup by a formidable French team composed of Sébastien Loeb and Victor Martins. Mick, on the other hand, shone in the individual quarter-finals, after eliminating Will Brown and Chaz Mostert. “Racing with Mick is special. He has the DNA of a champion,” says Sebastian Vettel.

Vettel returns behind the wheel but not in F1

Since his retirement from F1 in 2022, the four-time world champion has always maintained uncertainty about a potential return. While some still dream of a comeback for Vettel in Formula 1, the 37-year-old German has already moved on. Today, he seems to have found his balance. “I still love racing, but I’m also enjoying other things. F1 was a big part of my life, but it’s not everything,” he explains.

Yet, he has not completely left the world of competition. In 2023, he was testing a Porsche hypercar with a view to participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, for now, there is no official announcement regarding an endurance program. “I loved testing the Porsche, it’s an incredible car, but I want to make sure it’s what I really want to do,” he confided.

So, will Sebastian Vettel return to full-time racing? The mystery remains. But one thing is certain: his appearance at the 2025 Race of Champions thrilled fans and reminded everyone of what an exceptional driver he is.