Picture Credit: Twitter
F1 Legend Michael Schumacher had supposedly made a bold prediction about Lewis Hamilton in 2001. The 52-year-old, who is currently battling severe injuries that he sustained during a near-fatal skiing accident in 2013, had realized Hamilton’s potential way back when the Brit driver was only 16 years old.
Lewis is a quality driver: Michael Schumacher in 2001
Autosport has recently released a report from 20 years back when Michael Schumacher had talked about the 16-year-old Lewis Hamilton. They had supposedly participated in the World Karting Championship event at Kerpen in 2001.
During the event, Schumacher had said, “He (Lewis) is a quality driver, very strong and only 16. If he keeps this up, I’m sure he will reach F1. It’s something special to see a kid of his age out on the circuit. He’s clearly got the right racing mentality.”
Hamilton was already one of the most successful kart racers in 2001
The report also reveals that Hamilton was already a talked-about name in the racing circuit in 2001. It said, “Hamilton made history when he became the first Briton to win the European Karting Championship, at the age of 15. He began racing when he was eight and by now is considered one of the most successful kart racers in the World."
The report also mentioned the fact that Hamilton had already been signed by McLaren-Mercedes for a long-term contract, with the team funding his karting career then. The talented driver eventually made his F1 debut in 2007 for the Woking-based team.
Hamilton and Schumacher – F1 GOATS
Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher are undoubtedly two of the greatest F1 racers of all-time. The seven-time world champions have shared a great camaraderie over the years. Last year, Hamilton equaled Schumacher’s record of 91 F1 wins at the Eifel Grand Prix.
During the post-race interview, Mick Schumacher, son of the legendary German racer, presented Hamilton with one of his father's race helmets.
Lewis Hamilton, who later went on to break the record, was certainly delighted to receive the iconic memorabilia. He had later tweeted, “This was truly a surreal moment. One that I’ll remember forever.”
Lewis Hamilton will be back in action for Mercedes in 2021 season and will look to win a record-breaking 8th F1 title. On the racing tracks, he will be joined by Michael Schumacher’s son, Mick, who will drive for Haas this season.