Ralf Schumacher Critical of Mick's IndyCar Move: "I Don't Like It"
Ralf Schumacher has voiced strong concerns about his nephew Mick Schumacher's move to the IndyCar Series in 2026, citing the inherent dangers, particularly on high-speed oval tracks. While Mick acknowledges the risks, he emphasizes improved safety measures in the series. Ralf, drawing on his own past accidents, remains critical but believes Mick has the potential to succeed despite the challenges of starting anew in a demanding environment.
Mick Schumacher's move to the IndyCar Series in 2026 continues to be a major talking point in the motorsport world. While the 26-year-old is optimistic about his fresh start in the U.S., his uncle, Ralf Schumacher, has expressed significant concerns. Speaking on the Sky podcast "Backstage Boxengasse," the former Formula 1 driver made it clear that he views the risks of the series critically.
Why it matters:
Ralf Schumacher's vocal criticism highlights the inherent dangers of IndyCar racing, particularly on oval circuits, which have historically been associated with severe accidents. This perspective from a seasoned F1 veteran underscores the high-stakes transition Mick is making and the genuine concerns within his own family regarding his safety and career trajectory.
The Details:
- Safety Concerns: Ralf Schumacher stated, "My stance on the matter is clear. I still consider IndyCar very dangerous." He emphasized the extreme speeds on oval tracks, noting, "He has to fight his way in there... I stick to it, I still consider IndyCar very dangerous. But I understand, he is young, he wants to prove something to himself."
- Past Accidents: Ralf explained his worry is not unfounded, mentioning, "Many bad accidents have happened in the past, and that's why personally, I don't like it."
- Ralf's Own Experience: Ralf Schumacher himself suffered two severe accidents at Indianapolis during his active career—one due to a tire blowout, another due to tire damage. Open wheels, high speeds, and short reaction times make ovals particularly demanding.
- Mick's Counter-Arguments: Mick Schumacher acknowledges his uncle's concerns, stating, "Of course, I thought about it. But motorsport as a whole is dangerous, and I don't quite see why one thing should be more dangerous than another." He points out that the series has significantly improved and continues to upgrade its safety measures, arguing that current conditions are not comparable to those of earlier years.
- Career Potential: Despite his concerns, Ralf Schumacher believes Mick has the potential for a successful IndyCar career, though he warns of a challenging period: "Now comes a time when he will practically start from scratch." A switch to a different racing series always represents a new beginning.
What's next:
Mick Schumacher faces one of the biggest challenges of his career with 17 races, including six ovals and the legendary Indianapolis 500. His season is set to begin on March 1st in St. Petersburg, Florida. If he can adapt quickly and demonstrate his potential while navigating the perceived dangers, it could mark a significant turning point in his racing career, potentially opening doors for future opportunities.