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Todt on Mick Schumacher: 'We must leave him in peace'

FIA President Jean Todt has a special affection for Mick Schumacher but insists the Ferrari junior should be "left in peace" as he blossoms as a driver.

As the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, 19-year-old Mick has attracted a massive amount of interest since he embarked on his own career in motorsport.

After winning the European F3 series last year, Schumacher steps up to Formula 2 with the front-running Prema squad with which he has already showcased his undeniable talent by leading last week's first F2 test.

Vettel won't be giving Mick Schumacher any tips

Speaking in Geneva on Tuesday at the International Auto Show, Todt was queried on the young man's building momentum.

"I'm very happy, it's Michael's son Mick, I've known him since he was a baby," said Todt.

"I love him, he's a great character and we must leave him in peace. He's demonstrating to be a very talented driver.

"On top of that he's a very nice boy, very humble, very well-educated. I will follow him very closely as I've always been doing.

"He's a simple, honest, loyal, good boy. He's not yet spoiled [by the world of F1]."

As President of F1's governing body, Todt was also asked about the prospects facing this year's trio of young guns who have graduated to the big time, namely Williams' George Russell, McLaren's Lando Norris and Toro Rosso's Alexander Albon.

"It depends on the car they will drive," said the Frenchman.

"It's not a question of being a young driver, it's a question of having a good car to drive or not. If they have a good car they will be competitive.

"If they don't they will be behind. It's something you should understand, the driver without a car he will do nothing.

"If you put Hamilton in the worst car of the field, he will not be on pole and he will not be champion.

"You have people who have decided to step out of F1, like Alonso, because he is not able to have a winning car."

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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.