The Race of Champions (RoC) continues to keep Michael Schumacher’s legacy alive, ensuring his impact resonates at every turn. This year’s event in Sydney, Australia, saw a heartfelt moment unfold as German teammates Mick Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel spearheaded a touching tribute to the Formula 1 legend.
A Moving Tribute to Michael Schumacher at Race of Champions
Ahead of the Champions of Champions showdown on Saturday night, Team Germany’s Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher rallied 20 drivers to honor Mick’s father, Michael Schumacher. The F1 icon has been fighting to recover from a severe brain injury caused by a 2013 skiing accident. At Accord Stadium, the drivers gathered atop the tabletop jump, where Vettel unveiled a banner reading, “Keep Fighting Michael – We Miss You.” Below, it featured the Keep Fighting Foundation’s website, KeepFighting.ms. This organization, upheld by the Schumacher family, carries forward Michael’s charitable legacy while safeguarding his privacy.
Team Germany’s Legacy: Vettel and Schumacher Reunite
Vettel and Mick Schumacher teamed up for Germany for the second time, having first joined forces in 2023 in Sweden before the event took a break in 2024. Their partnership echoes the past, as Vettel once dominated the RoC alongside Michael Schumacher, securing six straight Nations Cup victories from 2007 to 2012. This year in Sydney, the duo aimed to channel that same spirit, blending nostalgia with determination at the international motorsport celebration.
Race of Champions Highlights: Competition and Camaraderie
Despite their efforts, Vettel and Schumacher exited Friday’s Nations Cup after a tight battle with Team Australia, led by Supercars stars Will Brown and Brodie Kostecki. A tie forced a decisive showdown, pitting Vettel against Kostecki, with the home team emerging victorious. Australia’s run ended against France later that night. Meanwhile, WRC legend Sébastien Loeb claimed Saturday’s Champion of Champions title, becoming the first five-time winner in RoC history. The competition was fierce, yet the tribute to Michael Schumacher remained the emotional centerpiece.
The Keep Fighting Foundation: Michael’s Enduring Influence
The banner’s message ties directly to the Keep Fighting Foundation, a beacon of hope inspired by Michael’s resilience. While the Schumacher family keeps his health updates private, their commitment to his charitable vision shines through. For fans and drivers alike, this tribute underscored Michael’s indelible mark on motorsport. Vettel, who shares a storied history with the elder Schumacher, and Mick, carrying his father’s name forward, bridged past and present in a moment of unity.
Mick Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel give their parade lap around Accor Stadium, and Vettel appears to steer with his feet to wave to fans.
Looking Ahead: Michael Schumacher’s Legacy Lives On
The Race of Champions once again proved it’s more than a competition—it’s a celebration of motorsport heroes like Michael Schumacher. As Mick and Vettel stood together in Sydney, their tribute reminded the world why Michael’s spirit endures. Whether through racing victories or heartfelt gestures, his influence remains a driving force, inspiring the next generation to keep fighting.
