BREAKING: Schumacher graduates to Formula 2

Prema Powerteam announced on Tuesday that Mick Schumacher will drive for the team in Formula 2 in the 2019 campaign after graduating from Formula 3, fresh off his world championship win in F3. The German is now one division below Formula 1 where his father, Michael Schumacher, won seven titles.

Throughout 2018, the European F3 championship was led by Red Bull junior driver, Dan Ticktum, but Schumacher rallied in the second half of the campaign and eventually recorded eight Grand Prix victories to secure the title.

Towards the end of the F1 season before the majority of driving duos were confirmed for 2019, there was speculation that Schumacher could skip F2 to go to the top level, but it has now been confirmed that he will feature in the second tier.

The 19-year-old claims it was a logical decision to move to F2 instead of jumping straight to F1.

“I'm really looking forward to contesting my next season with Prema in FIA Formula 2 - a logical step on my sporting path in my view, because I want to further improve my technical experience and driving skills. For me, it was very clear to go into Formula 2 with Prema," Schumacher said after the announcement.

"I can't thank the Prema family enough for what we achieved together as a team, especially this year, how we continued to develop together. I’m also really excited to drive the Formula 2 tests in Abu Dhabi.”

.@SchumacherMick will be racing in @FIA_F2 with @PREMA_Team in 2019 after a sensational year in @fiaf3europe #fiaf2 #fiaf3 #driverannouncement ????: @autofocusbg pic.twitter.com/MEzxVKGIiq — PREMA (@PREMA_Team) November 27, 2018

Prema team principal Rene Rosin believes Schumacher has the maturity to continue to progress after his championship victory in F3.

"We are proud to welcome Mick to our Formula 2 operation for 2019," Rosin said.

"He is an extremely talented and dedicated racer, working with him is a pleasure and we can't wait to begin this adventure together.

"This championship is not an easy one due to its learning curve for rookies especially with the introduction of the new car, but we think that Mick has the maturity and skills needed to make it. We are excited for the start of the next chapter in his career and we are happy to be part of it."

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