Vettel reflects on driving Schumacher's 2002 Ferrari

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-08 • Permanent link

Amidst the racing world's nostalgia, Sebastian Vettel took the wheel of Michael Schumacher's iconic Ferrari F2002 at the Italian Grand Prix, a moment that left the driver "overwhelmed by emotion." Vettel, a seven-time Formula One champion, had always idolized Schumacher, and getting behind the wheel of his idol's car was a dream come true. The Ferrari F2002, which won five consecutive World Drivers' Championships from 2000 to 2004, was a testament to Schumacher's dominance on the track.

The emotional moment was a stark contrast to the on-track action, where Vettel finished in seventh place. However, the event marked a significant milestone in the racing community, with many fans and pundits praising Vettel's bravery and respect for his idol. The Ferrari team, meanwhile, expressed pride in their heritage and the opportunity to share Schumacher's legacy with a new generation of drivers. The event drew a global audience of millions, with many tuning in to witness the historic moment.

As a cultural phenomenon, the Schumacher era has had a lasting impact on the world of motorsports. Ferrari's dominance in the early 2000s was a defining feature of the era, with Schumacher's incredible talent and Ferrari's innovative engineering playing a significant role in the team's success. The era also saw the rise of rival teams, such as McLaren and Renault, which pushed Ferrari to innovate and improve. Today, the Schumacher legacy continues to inspire new generations of drivers and fans.

As the racing world looks to the future, Vettel's drive of Schumacher's F2002 has sparked a renewed focus on the team's heritage and the importance of preserving racing history. The Ferrari team has announced plans to showcase the F2002 in a special exhibition at their factory, with Vettel set to make a guest appearance. Meanwhile, the Italian Grand Prix has announced plans to introduce a new "Heritage" category, which will feature historic cars from the team's archives. With the racing world still reeling from the news, it remains to be seen how this new development will shape the future of the sport.