Ralf Schumacher: Everyone has to find their own way

A new generation of the Schumacher family is moving away from Formula 1 – Mick, the son of the seven-time world champion, will make his endurance racing debut with the factory Alpine team this year, although he still serves as reserve driver for Mercedes. And David, his cousin, Ralf Schumacher’s son, has been racing in the DTM touring car series for the past two years.

David also dreamed of Formula 1, but firstly he did not have great success in the youth series and eventually had to switch to the DTM. Secondly, the road to the top of world motorsport requires very serious financing.

“I must admit that, in my opinion, David has too frivolous an approach to certain matters,” Ralf Schumacher said in an interview with Bild. “It could have turned out differently for him in previous years. But everyone has to find their own way, and I’m proud of David.”

But when David was asked directly whether he could live up to his father’s expectations, the 22-year-old German driver answered honestly: “For that I would have to get into Formula 1.”

He was also asked how strict his father’s parenting methods were.

“It all depends on the situation,” said David Schumacher. “He was very strict when it came to behavior or table manners.” He also places very strict demands on my physical training. In my youth I was a little overweight, and then he took me seriously, for which I am now very grateful.

But in my opinion he now realizes that I have to go my own way, because I am already 22 years old.”

David’s plans for 2024 are not yet known, but it is not a fact that he will continue to compete in the DTM: at the end of last season he only managed 25th place in the individual competition. In fact, this is the penultimate place among all drivers who have competed in all stages of the touring car championship.