Mick Schumacher to draw on junior success at "twisted" Imola

Haas

Schumacher to draw on junior success at "twisted" Imola

Schumacher was victorious in an Italian F4 race at the circuit in 2016

Ewan Gale

Tuesday 13 April 2021 11:06

Mick Schumacher is aiming to utilise his experience of a previous victory at Imola to build on his Formula 1 debut at this weekend's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.

Although the Haas driver suffered an early spin in Bahrain, the 22-year-old was able to finish his first F1 race to crucially obtain track time and gain confidence.

Ahead of F1's return to Imola, a circuit where Schumacher tasted a pole-and-win-sweep in Italian F4 five years ago, the German recounted his time racing at the venue.

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“I only have good memories there, to be honest," said Schumacher. "I’ve raced at Imola in F4 and done a few tests in F3.

"Honestly, all of the experiences I’ve had there are great. We had a track walk there once and saw five peacocks, which was a new one for me.

"The track is amazing to drive. Racing-wise it can be quite difficult, with very few places to overtake. Once you’re in a flow and set a nice lap it’s amazing, especially how one corner follows after another.

"There are quick corners, technical corners, the kerbs that you have to ride. There’s definitely lots to look forward to in a Formula 1 car.”

Detailing the specific nature of the track, Schumacher explained the thrill of tackling the high-speed corners, such as Piratella and Acque Minerali and conceded he was captivated by the opportunity to race an F1 car around the circuit.

“Imola is known for a lot of kerb riding," he added. "You have the two corners up in the chicane where you have to take a lot of kerb. We have some long corners which follow into long straights.

"Everything’s basically very twisted. In all the junior categories that I’ve raced there, it was always very fun, and a track I enjoyed driving.

"I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a lot better in a Formula 1 car. It’s amazing to drive a Formula 1 car, so to do that on a super cool track will be even more special. I’m definitely looking forward to it.

"Regarding preparation, I’ve been speaking through it all with the team and going through the notes I made there when I was young.”