Mick Schumacher officially joins Ferrari Driver Academy

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As expected, Ferrari has confirmed the entry of reigning European F3 champion Mick Schumacher into its Driver Academy.

The 19-year-old's enrollment into Maranello's young driver programme prolongs the history of the Schumacher family's association with Ferrari, with Mick's legendary father Michael winning five of his seven F1 world titles with the Italian outfit.

"I am thrilled that Ferrari has entered a partnership with me and my next future in motorsport will be in red, being part of the Ferrari Driver Academy and also of the Scuderia Ferrari Family," Mick Schumacher said.

"Again, this is another step forward in the right direction, and I can only profit from the immense amount of expertise bundled there. Be sure I will make everything to extract whatever helps me achieve my dream, racing in Formula 1.

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"It is more than obvious that Ferrari has a big place in my heart since I was born and also in the hearts of our family, so I am delighted on a personal level about this opportunity as well.

"At this stage it is however also time to say thank you to my family, friends and partners who supported me all along and helped me arrive at this point."

This year, Schumacher will undergo his development with the Scuderia while racing in the FIA Formula 2 series with the Ferrari-affiliated Prema squad.

Ferrari has also confirmed that its FDA class of 2019 will Giuliano Alesi include (the son of former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi), Callum Ilott, Robert Armstrong and Robert Shwartzman, Enzo Fittipaldi and Gianluca Petecof.

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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.