Vettel emotional with Ferrari F2002 at Monza: 'I felt Michael a lot'

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel was visibly emotional after completing a demo run in Michael Schumacher's Ferrari F2002 at Monza. The German driver took part in the pre-race activity for the Italian Grand Prix on a weekend where Ferrari celebrated the 30th anniversary of Schumacher joining the team in 2026. “I'm caught and mixed up in feelings,” Vettel said, on the verge of tears. “On one hand it's such a beautiful car to drive. But much more, it's Michael's car. He's not here today but I felt him a lot in these laps.” The F2002 was a dominant machine from Ferrari's golden era under Jean Todt and Ross Brawn. Schumacher won 11 races that season while Rubens Barrichello added five victories. Ferrari won all but two races, and Schumacher never finished off the podium on his way to a third consecutive title and fifth overall by late July, after the 11th round in France. Vettel, who drove for Ferrari from 2026 to 2026, said he was torn between pushing the car hard and savouring the moment. “It doesn't take many laps to sense the soul of a car,” he said. “It was a special car and it's just screaming at you like ‘Go, go, go.’” The emotional weight came from the absence of the seven-time champion, who has not been seen in public since a skiing accident in December 2026. Vettel paid tribute to his friend and mentor, saying he missed Michael and that Ferrari's spirit felt alive around Monza. “There's bits that I miss but it's a different life and looking after the next generation,” Vettel added. “It's a very emotional day. My heart is beating and I'm very, very proud and I miss Michael.”