Sebastian Vettel is scheduled to drive Michael Schumacher’s championship-winning Ferrari F2002 at Monza this weekend. The demonstration run forms part of a broader tribute to Michael Schumacher during the 2026 Italian Grand Prix. Rubens Barrichello will also participate in the event.
Vettel, a four-time World Champion, retired from Formula 1 at the close of the 2022 season. He has since engaged in various historic car demonstrations. His appearance at Monza underscores his admiration for Schumacher.
The Ferrari F2002 is recognised as one of Formula 1’s most successful cars. Michael Schumacher secured his fifth World Drivers’ Championship with this chassis in 2002. The car achieved 15 victories across the 2002 and 2003 seasons.
Technical specifications for the F2002 include a Ferrari Type 051 3.0-liter V10 engine. This naturally aspirated unit was capable of producing an estimated 835 horsepower at 17,800 rpm. It could rev up to 19,000 rpm.
The car featured a lightweight honeycomb and carbon-fibre composite monocoque chassis. Its transmission was a fused titanium, electro-hydraulic 7-speed plus reverse gearbox. The F2002 weighed 600 kg with liquids and driver.
Vettel’s demonstration will utilise an advanced sustainable fuel. This fuel has been specifically developed by Shell, leveraging expertise gained during the current 2026 season.
Rubens Barrichello, Schumacher’s teammate in 2002, will drive the F2002 on Saturday. Vettel’s run is slated for Sunday, prior to the Grand Prix. Ferrari will also display Schumacher’s 1996 F310 and 2006 248 F1 cars.
Ferrari has introduced a special Schumacher-inspired tribute livery for the 2026 Italian Grand Prix weekend. This initiative further commemorates Schumacher’s legacy with the Scuderia.
