Lewis Hamilton is certain that Mick Schumacher, son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, will make it to Formula 1 and not only because of his name, although the Mercedes driver said that was definitely a help.
Schumacher was recently crowned the Formula 3 champion following a string of dominant victories in the latter stages of the season and it's widely expected he will move up to Formula 2 in 2019, with the next step naturally F1 if he can prove himself in the feeder series category.
Hamilton however has no doubts that the 19-year-old will eventually follow in his father's footsteps and join the premier series.
"I think for any of the champions when they have youngsters coming through… Michael is named the greatest driver of all time, he’s got the most titles so there will 100 per cent be a Schumacher back in Formula 1.
"Partly because of the name but secondly he’s doing a great job – he’s obviously got a lot of talent as his Dad had, just like Keke and Nico [Rosberg].
"Just like when Fernando [Alonso] has kids. I am sure an Alonso will be here again. Even if I had a kid that wants to race, and even if he’s no good he can make it to F1 because of the name."
Hamilton, who could become F1's joint-second most successful driver this weekend by securing a fifth title, reckons having the famous Schumacher name back could be a great thing for the sport.
"He’s doing a really great job and he’s a really great kid as well. He’s come and been a part of our team on a couple of weekends, like last year and he’s very attentive and he’s got great talent as his Dad had.
"I don’t think it [the name] will be a burden in my personal opinion. I think it could be great for the sport."
