Berger sees Mick Schumacher following his father's path

©FIAEuropeanF3

Former F1 driver Gerhard Berger believes Mick Schumacher is a chip off the old paternal block as he watches the young charger's career unfold in the junior levels of motorsport.

The FIA F3 European Championship in which Schumacher competes was included on the German DTM bill at Misano last weekend, a series currently managed by Berger.

Video: Mick Schumacher on F3 success and his future in F1

The former Ferrari and McLaren driver witnessed 19-year-old's successful efforts in Race 1 last Saturday, and was impressed with what he saw.

"The guy suddenly shows the Schumacher genes," Berger told Auto Bild.

"He has developed and is showing some rough edges."

The young Schumacher - racing for Prema - conquered his third win last weekend in the ultra-competitive F3 championship and currently stands fourth in the series' standings with nine races to go.

"I hope it goes on like this. Everything is open to him," Berger added. "Everyone would be happy if Mick steps in his father's footsteps."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.