Mick Schumacher moving towards F1 'one step at a time'

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Mick Schumacher won't force the issue when it comes to his path to Formula 1, with the young German taking it one step at a time.

Teenage chargers Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll headed straight to Grand Prix racing after a year in the FIA European F3 Championship.

But the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher believes patience is a virtue.

"I've just come into Formula 3 -- my second weekend is just over," the 18-year-old German told the ARD broadcaster.

"For me it's about taking one step at a time. I cannot say anything concrete yet."

But Schumacher, who scored his maiden F3 podium finish at Monza two weeks ago, said he already feels comfortable in the highly competitive junior series, although he is currently just fifth overall.

"I have no real trouble," he said.

"The car is extremely fast -- I think almost as fast as DTM. It's extremely fun."

Norbert Haug, the former Mercedes F1 chief, hailed Schumacher's progress so far.

"He is very, very controlled, he looks very good and I have a good feeling," he said.

"He drives close to the limit but not beyond it. We can all expect a great deal from him."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.