Mick Schumacher, Callum Illot and Robert Shwartzman enjoyed a thrilling and unforgettable Formula 1 tests on Wednesday at Fiorano circuit as they were making preparation for their formula 1 debut next weekend.
Ferrari had organised tests in the 2018 Ferrari SF71H at the track near the factory to gauge the three top members of its academy, as they will all feature in Formula 1 before the end of the 2020 season.
Schumacher ,Illot and Shwartzman, each completed their tests and were very fast in adjusting to the car, as the Ferrari driver academy technical chief Michael Matassa said.
“It’s not easy to switch from the driving style demanded from a Formula 2 car to one best suited to Formula 1, the car has much more power, a significantly more sophisticated braking system and power steering that requires sensitivity and precision to use properly.”
“However, they were all quick and immediately began running at a good pace. I believe the laps they did today will be very useful when Mick and Callum run on Friday at the Nurburgring.” Michael Matassa said.
Mick Schumacher, who is the leading champion in the Formula 2 series will be featuring for the Alfa Romeo team in the opening practice for the Eifel Grand Prix at the Nurburgring track which will happen next Friday. He will be appealing to join the Formula 1 pact for the 2021 season. This was the third outing for Schumacher in a Formula 1 car following appearances with Ferrari and Alfa Romeo in 2019 after the Bahrain Grand Prix.
“It was very useful to get used to all the procedures again, which are pretty complex and also with how a team works in this top level of the sport,” Schumacher said.
“I can’t wait to jump into the cockpit in Germany and it will be nice to take part in a practice session for the first time in front of my home crowd. In the team, there are some mechanics who worked with my father and that will make the day even more special.”
Callum Illot made his first appearance in a Formula 1 car at Fiorano, though he had previously tested a grand prix car for Alfa Romeo, and later said the experience was unforgettable.
“Today I was able to get to grips with the car with just ten days to go to my debut on a Grand Prix weekend,” said Ilott.
“What struck me about the SF71H was its aero efficiency, which means you have grip levels you just don’t find in other categories. Then there’s the extreme power from the engine and instant braking.”
Both drivers are strong contenders for Formula 1 drivers seats for the 2021 season, with Ferrari having posts for its junior drivers at Alfa Romeo and Haas. For Robert Shwartzman, the Wednesday’s run at Fiorano was his first outing in a Formula 1 car, having only driven as high as Formula 2. He was the 2019 Formula 3 champion and said the day was fantastic and fun noting the power uptake of the car compared to the previous cars he had driven.
“When you accelerate the horsepower never seems to stop,” said Shwartzman.
“The brakes are equally impressive: the car stops when it feels as though it’s too late to make the corner. Apart from the actual driving, it was also special to work with the team. There are a lot of them and they pay attention to every little detail. They really work at a very high level.”
“Thanks to everyone who made this memorable day possible.”
Shwartzman will feature for Alfa Romeo in practice for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in mid-November.
