Michael Schumacher: New Mercedes star makes an extraordinary statement

Created: 02/17/2022, 13:56

By: Christoph Klaucke

Michael Schumacher drove in his Formula 1 comeback in a red helmet for Mercedes.

© David Ebener/dpa

Michael Schumacher is still revered as a hero in Formula 1 today.

A newcomer makes a very special mark on Schumi's ex-team Mercedes.

Munich – The name Michael Schumacher* will always be closely associated with Formula 1.

Especially in the Ferrari, the record world champion wrote history in the premier class.

But what sometimes gets a little lost: Schumi is also a legend at the German motorsport group Mercedes.

The 53-year-old was once under contract with the Mercedes Junior Team.

After leaving Ferrari, Schumacher returned to Formula 1 after three years and did important development work for the Silver Arrows between 2010 and 2012.

The result: Since 2014, Mercedes has won the Constructors' Championship every season and Lewis Hamilton, like Schumacher, has become the record world champion with seven world championship titles.

Hamilton's new teammate George Russell is now making an extraordinary statement.

The campaign proves once again what a high reputation Schumacher still enjoys in the paddock.

After all, not only son Mick grew up with Schumi's successes.

Michael Schumacher: Mercedes-Star makes an extraordinary statement

George Russell has switched from Williams to Mercedes for the coming season.

Out of respect for Michael Schumacher, the Briton, who recently turned 24 (February 15), has left out a small but not insignificant detail.

Russell will no longer start with a red helmet as usual.

Background: The red helmet is considered Schumacher's trademark.

Schumi shaped an era with a red helmet in a red car at Ferrari and also wore the same head protection in a Mercedes.

“In terms of colors, the helmet is quite different compared to my previous ones.

Black is more dominant.

I think a red helmet in a Mercedes just belongs to Michael Schumacher.

And I want to respect that," Russell said.

However, Russell does not want to do without red completely.

His helmet has a bright red stripe on the side.

The newcomer also opted for blue details.

Michael Schumacher: New Mercedes star Russell does without his helmet

Russell's decision is more than a grand gesture.

In addition to the car, the drivers have a very special relationship with their helmet.

Finally, the head protection gives a sense of security.

In addition, the pilots often make their mark with the design.

The fact that Russell parted with his usual helmet must not have been an easy step.

Michael Schumacher with his red helmet in front of the Mercedes - one of his successors is now doing without the same helmet color.

© Kai Försterling/dpa

The exchange of helmets between drivers is also a sign of respect.

The moment when Mick Schumacher presented Lewis Hamilton with an original helmet from his father at the Nürburgring in 2020 was unforgettable.

At that time, Hamilton had broken Schumacher's record with 91 race wins.

Russell is now also trying to take on Schumi's great legacy and sets the next example with his action.

Schumacher is also still on everyone's lips among Ferrari drivers.