Mick Schumacher Q&A: Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Formula 1 returns to Brazil for the São Paulo Grand Prix, Round 21 of the 2022 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. We know this is a track that you love, so what is it about the Autódromo José Carlos Pace that is so special? 

“The flow of the track is something that I like, I enjoy driving it. It was one of the first tracks that I drove in a Formula 1 simulator. Frankly, I just love going there, the fans are great and I’m very much looking forward to racing there again.” 

 

It will be the third and final Sprint event of the season, with six set to feature next year. How do you think the team has fared at Sprint weekends this year and are there any changes that could be made to improve the format for teams and fans?

“People take considerations on what to do and how to improve it, and I’m sure we’re still on a learning curve trying to understand it better and how to improve it. On our side, we obviously want to start the weekend off as well as we can so basically we have the highest amount of opportunities in qualifying that we can. 

“Brazil is a track where I immediately felt very comfortable on, and so therefore I’m looking forward to going back. Even though I would’ve liked a normal race weekend there because it would’ve meant more time for us to prepare, it’s a challenge and we’re always up for a challenge.”
 

For the São Paulo Grand Prix you will be showcasing another one-off design, this time with a special cause in mind. Can you share more?

“Yes, for the São Paulo Grand Prix I’ll be wearing another one-off helmet design. In collaboration with our team partner, 1&1, I will be donating my helmet to RTL’s annual 'Spendenmarathon’ telethon as an auction prize, with all money raised going to selected children’s aid projects. The RTL broadcast team will have a replica helmet on display during their broadcast this weekend to promote the upcoming auction. I won’t spoil the surprise so you’ll have to wait to see it, but as always, I worked with Jens Munser who does all my designs.”

 

With only one Sprint and two races left in the season, and with the battle for eighth place in the Constructors’ Championship heating up with AlphaTauri, does it change your mindset when heading into the first corner on lap one or when fighting with another car side-by-side, knowing every point is crucial?

“If you’re shy, the chances are that you won’t score points and these days we need to try and get everything out of what we have and try and finish in those points paying positions.”