Motorsport stars gathered at the Race of Champions held at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia, on March 10, 2025, to honor Michael Schumacher, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion enduring the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury from a skiing accident back on December 29, 2013. Among the event's attendees were his son, Mick Schumacher, and close family friend Sebastian Vettel, who led the tribute on behalf of all 20 drivers participating at the event.
A poignant moment unfolded as Mick and Vettel unveiled a banner, which read, "Keep fighting Michael - We miss you." This touching display not only commemorated Schumacher's impact on the sport but also highlighted the existence of the Keep Fighting Foundation, established by the Schumacher family to promote health, safety, and perseverance since its inception four years after Michael's tragic accident.
Schumacher, regarded as one of Formula 1's greatest drivers, has not made public appearances since his accident, leading to widespread support from the motorsport community wishing him well as he continues his private rehabilitation. On the track, the atmosphere was equally emotional, with Vettel reminiscing about the legendary driver with deep admiration and respect. "I grew up admiring him and then had the chance to race alongside him, learning so much from him," said Vettel, reflecting on their unique bond.
Both Mick and Sebastian found themselves racing for Team Germany this weekend, vying for the Nations Cup, which they won six consecutive times from 2007 to 2012, showcasing the enduring legacy of Michael Schumacher within the racing community.
The Race of Champions saw participation from top competitors worldwide, but the event ended for the German duo at the quarter-finals against Team Australia’s Will Brown and Chaz Mostert, who had advanced after winning the tiebreaker race against Vettel. Charismatic French racer Sebastien Loeb emerged victorious at the flagship event, winning the 2025 Race of Champions by defeating Chaz Mostert.
The Race of Champions has brought together motorsport athletes from various disciplines over the years, but this year’s tribute to Michael Schumacher reverberated more deeply with the legacy he has carved within the sport. His towering record of 91 Grand Prix victories stood until being eclipsed by Lewis Hamilton, who tied Schumacher's world titles by clinching his seventh championship in 2020.
Social media buzzed with reactions to the tribute. Fans voiced their support, saying things like, “Keep fighting Michael. Thank you, Seb, and wish you the best always.” Others acknowledged not just the tributes at the event but also recognized Schumacher's legacy and influence over the racing world. Notable racing figures present included David Coulthard and Kurt Busch, who reinforced their solidarity during the tribute.
One of the significant features of this year's Race of Champions was the emotional weight it carried, signaling how Michael Schumacher remains at the forefront of the motorsport community’s thoughts—even nearly twelve years after his life-altering crash changed everything. At 56 years old now, the world continues to celebrate the impact Schumacher made, cherishing the moments he spent racing.
Through events like this, the Keep Fighting Foundation works not only to honor Michael Schumacher's legacy but to keep his spirit alive, inspiring new generations of racers. His son Mick, continuing the family tradition, earlier competed with Haas F1 from 2021 to 2022, ensuring the Schumacher name remains prominent within Formula 1.
Looking ahead, the motorsport community turns its eyes to the upcoming Formula 1 season, where the first race will take place at the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 16, 2025. Max Verstappen will vie for his fifth successive Drivers' Championship title, as Lewis Hamilton seeks to clear his path toward achieving record-breaking championship success after recently joining Ferrari.
So as the competition heats up, the sentiments echoed at the Race of Champions serve as poignant reminders of the bonds shared within motorsport and the enduring legacy of Michael Schumacher. His story inspires many, and his family’s message of strength and resilience continues to echo through the fast-paced world of racing, reminding everyone to keep fighting.