Sebastian Vettel drove the iconic 2002 Ferrari F2002 around Monza, an act that pulled him into a swirl of emotion.
The former Ferrari driver took several laps in Schumacher’s 2002 machine as the team marked the 30th anniversary of the German legends’ debut in the Maranello garage. It was a weekend that honored the ties between the 2002 championship‑winning car and the fairy‑tale partnership that produced 11 victories for Michael Schumacher and five for Rubens Barrichello.
Re‑awakening a historic partnership
During the pre‑race session, Vettel’s hands rode the V10 engine, feeling “the soul of a car” that once powered seven back‑to‑back champions. The F2002’s driving experience, known for its precise power delivery, resurfaced memories of the 1996 debut that saw Schumacher clinch his first Formula 1 title. The nostalgia was amplified by the fact that Schumacher had not appeared publicly since his 2013 ski accident.
Embodying legacy on an Italian circuit
Vettel attempted to strike the delicate balance between savoring the moment and preserving the car for posterity. “I was torn between pushing it and making the experience last,” he said, noting how the machine seemed to “scream” at him. The ex‑driver’s reflection on the raw, visceral nature of the F2002 resonated with the crowd, who were sharing the history of a team that dominated the season.
Car, driver, and emotional resonance
Vettel’s comments highlighted how the car embodied both Schumacher’s spirit and Ferrari’s enduring ambition. He expressed that Marty’s legacy, though absent, was tangible: “I felt him a lot in these laps.” The 2002 car’s cutting‑edge aerodynamics and power were elements that continued to influence modern F1 engineering discussions, cementing its status as a technical benchmark.
Aftermath of the demonstration
Following the run, the former champion noted a “very emotional day,” citing a heart pounding and a profound sense of pride. He also touched on future opportunities, pointing to a new generation of drivers shaped by Ferrari’s legacy. The demonstration, brief yet powerful, confirmed that the spectacular blend of driver skill and machine design remains a key part of F1 history.
Photo by: Eric Le Galliot
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