Incidentally, this track is the one where Michael Schumacher began his racing career as a young go-kart driver.
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The karting track in Erftlandring, Germany that is owned by Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher has been saved from a mining-related demolition.
Incidentally, this track is the one where Schumacher began his racing career as a young go-kart driver.
The track is near the seven-time F1 world champion’s childhood home in Kerpen. And it was bought by German energy firm RWE as they looked to mine lignite coal.
However, protests environmental groups stopped the mining from taking place. And it also gave the karting club in the area a chance to save the track.
The land is still owned by RWE, but will be leased out for karting related activities.
“We have sealed a lease agreement with RWE for 10 years plus an option for five more, and can now invest the money from the sale in the necessary renovation,” karting club president Gerhard Noack told the Kolner Express.
“A buy-back was not possible because the site is still a mining area. We pay a moderate lease and it doesn’t matter whether we pay it to Schumacher or to RWE.
“The access roads and the track are being resurfaced, we are building new CIK kerbs and double safety fences so we can again organise international races such as the World Cup, European Championship and WSK.
Noack added that he is unaware of Schumacher’s health but was happy to keep the faciltiy open.
“We are making Michael’s dream come true and will keep the sports facility on which he learned to walk for a long time to come.
“I don’t know how he’s doing and I’m not asking Rolf (Schumacher, Michael’s father) anymore because the family is asking for Michael’s privacy.
“But I think he and son Mick, who he taught karting here, will be happy (with the news).”
It has been years now since Schumacher retired from F1. Yet, in the eyes of many, he remains the greatest driver the sport has produced.
His record of world championships has been matched by Lewis Hamilton, with both having won 7 each. And Hamilton has also eclipsed both Schumacher’s wins and pole positions record.
Yet Schumacher still holds a special place in the heart of many F1 fans. And even with news of his health being private, many every day wish for his well-being on social media.
In the years since, his son Mick has also entered the sport, making his debut in 2021 with Haas. He will continue with the team for the 2022 season as well.
