Ralf cautions Mick about the 'hazardous' Indy decision.

      "I personally don’t believe it’s a good idea."

      Ralf Schumacher has expressed concern over the news that his nephew Mick will be testing an Indycar for the first time later this month. The 26-year-old son of F1 icon Michael Schumacher is set to drive for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing on October 13 in Indianapolis. However, Ralf, a six-time grand prix winner and Michael’s brother, told Sky Deutschland that he "doesn’t quite comprehend" Mick’s intentions.

      "To be honest, I haven’t spoken to him personally, but he was reportedly quoted saying that he has a passion for motorsport and single-seater cars, which is why he is so eager to give it a try," Ralf commented. "I don’t fully understand that, as I believe he is in excellent hands where he currently is and could have a bright future," he continued, referring to Mick’s full-time role in Alpine’s WEC prototype program.

      The 50-year-old cautioned that oval racing is "too risky" and recalled several tragic accidents from the past. "That’s why I personally don’t think it’s a good idea," he emphasized. Ralf also questioned the career opportunities that come with moving to Indycar. "Making the leap from Indycar to Formula 1 isn’t straightforward," he stated. "The tests conducted thus far have not been fruitful. And if you transition there, it’s somewhat similar to Japan— the standards remain high, so achieving success in America won’t be easy."

      "And that’s why it adds extra pressure that you may not need to put on yourself," he added, confessing that he would prohibit his own son David from pursuing the same path. "I personally understand the emotions involved, but if it were David, I would honestly oppose it because it would simply be too dangerous for me."