Hamilton: Schumacher name not a burden on Mick

Lewis Hamilton believes that the famous Schumacher name will not prove to be a burden on Michael Schumacher's son, Mick, who was recently crowned the F3 champion, saying that the connection to the record world championship winner could prove to be an advantage in Formula 1.

Schumacher has enjoyed a superb second half of the campaign in Formula Three, and shot up the rankings following a flurry of race victories which eventually saw him claim the title at Hockenheim.

When previewing the upcoming United States Grand Prix, Hamilton was asked whether being the son of such a legendary figure, Michael Schumacher, would weigh hard on the shoulders of Mick.

The Brit does not believe the young driver will be burdened.

"I don’t think it will be a burden," Hamilton responded.

"I think naturally for any of the champions when they have youngsters come through, naturally Michael is named the greatest driver of all time, he’s got the most titles, so there will one hundred percent be a Schumacher back in Formula One, partly because of the name, but secondly because he’s doing a great job.

"He’s obviously got a lot of talent as his Dad had, just like Keke and Nico, just like when Fernando has kids I’m sure an Alonso will be here again. Even if I have a kid who wants to race and even if he’s no good he can make it Formula One because of the name."

As of yet, Schumacher is not affiliated with a F1 team, and Hamilton revealed that he was impressed with the attitude of the 19-year-old when he visited the Mercedes squad last season.

"He’s come to… and been a part of our team a couple of weekends," the five-time world champion continued.

"I think it was last year, very attentive. He’s got a great talent as his Dad had so I don’t think it will be a burden in my personal opinion. I think it could be great for the sport."

Fernando Alonso, sat beside Hamilton during the FIA press conference, admitted that he does not know Mick personally, but says his results speak for themselves.

"Not much to add. I don’t know him," the Spaniard confessed.

"Obviously I never met him, probably. You only see the results from the outside and he has a great talent and he will be good for the sport, to have the Schumacher name again in F1. Let’s see what the future brings, not putting extra pressure on him which I’m sure he has enough already. Let time decide."

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