Vettel Dedicates Race of Champions Win to Absent Schumacher
Sebastian Vettel paid tribute to Michael Schumacher after winning the Race of Champions in London, acknowledging the ongoing absence of his mentor since the 2013 skiing accident.
Sebastian Vettel claimed victory at the Race of Champions event held at London’s Olympic Stadium in November 2015, but the win was coloured by the absence of Michael Schumacher. Vettel, who partnered with Schumacher for years in the event’s Nations Cup, dedicated his triumph to his compatriot and long-time mentor, who has not appeared in public since suffering severe head injuries in a skiing accident in late 2013.
Vettel addressed Schumacher’s absence directly after the event, saying it was difficult for everyone involved not to have him present. He noted that almost everyone at the Race of Champions knew Schumacher personally, underlining the seven-time Formula One world champion’s influence across the sport. Vettel said the paddock continues to wish Schumacher well as he recovers away from the public eye.
A void at the Race of Champions
Schumacher and Vettel formed a dominant pairing at the Race of Champions, winning the Nations Cup for Germany multiple times. Since Schumacher’s accident, Vettel has competed without his former teammate, facing rivals including Daniel Ricciardo, Felipe Massa, Nico Hulkenberg, Jenson Button and Romain Grosjean. The event in London brought together drivers from various disciplines, but Schumacher’s absence was felt throughout the weekend.
Schumacher’s ongoing fight
Vettel said that Schumacher continues to fight in his recovery, describing the situation as difficult but stressing the support he receives from friends and colleagues. The Ferrari driver’s comments reflect the respect and affection Schumacher commands in the racing world, and the sense of loss his absence creates at major motorsport gatherings.
For an update on Schumacher’s condition, seethis report from Barcelona.
