A poignant social media post by four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel left the Formula 1 community deeply moved, after he shared a rare and nostalgic photograph of his hero, the legendary Michael Schumacher.
A Nostalgic Snapshot That Captured a Bond
Almost three years ago, Vettel posted a touching image on Instagram that showed a young version of himself in a silver kart, being assisted by a kneeling Michael Schumacher. The photo was taken at the NRW Cup Final in Kerpen, Germany, during Vettel's karting career. He captioned the image simply: “Receiving last Orders.”
The post triggered a flood of emotional responses from fans across the globe. Many commented on the heartfelt nature of the image, with one writing they were moved to tears, while another joked about ‘someone cutting onions’.
A Friendship Forged in Racing and Life
The bond between the two German drivers extended far beyond their time as rivals on the F1 grid. While they competed against each other during Schumacher’s three-year comeback with Mercedes, they also joined forces to win six consecutive Race of Champions Nations’ Cups for Germany.
In a 2023 interview, Vettel revealed the depth of their connection, recalling his final conversation with Schumacher before the skiing accident in December 2013 that caused the seven-time champion life-changing injuries. Vettel had shared the happy news that he was going to be a father. “I think I really appreciated it towards the end in that sense, where our relationship became stronger and stronger before the accident,” Vettel told RTL. “I just miss my friend.”
Mentorship Passed to a New Generation
In a touching full-circle moment, Vettel later repaid Schumacher’s early guidance by mentoring his son, Mick Schumacher, when he entered Formula 1. Despite being on opposing teams, Vettel offered the young driver his support and advice.
“I am obviously friends with his father and his father is my hero,” Vettel said of Mick in 2021. Mick, who now competes in endurance racing, was full of praise for Vettel’s role, calling him a “huge help” both on and off the track.
The shared photograph serves as a powerful reminder of Schumacher’s enduring legacy, not just as a record-breaking champion with seven world titles, but as a mentor and friend whose influence continues to resonate within the sport he dominated.
