Marcus Ericsson recently shared his ideal racing lineup, highlighting five legendary drivers he would want to compete against in a hypothetical race. Among his selections, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher stands out, reflecting Ericsson’s deep admiration for past racing greats.
The 34-year-old Swedish driver spent several years in Formula 1 from 2014 to 2018 before transitioning to compete in IndyCar from 2019 onward. Despite finding notable success in American open-wheel racing, Ericsson’s appreciation for Formula 1 remains evident through his carefully chosen dream grid of iconic drivers.
Five Racing Icons Define Ericsson’s Ultimate Starting Lineup
Ericsson’s first pick for his dream grid was fellow Swede Ronnie Peterson, celebrated as the most accomplished Formula 1 driver from Sweden. Peterson tragically lost his life following an accident at the 1978 Italian Grand Prix, but his impact and talent have endured in motorsport history. Next on Ericsson’s list was James Hunt, the 1976 Formula 1 champion known for his fearless driving style.
The third driver chosen was Ayrton Senna, a three-time world champion revered for his exceptional talent on the track. Ericsson described Senna as:
“The biggest raw talent that ever raced in Formula 1.”
Following Senna, Ericsson picked Michael Schumacher, whose dominance in Formula 1 included seven world titles and a remarkable streak of five consecutive championships with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004. Reflecting on Schumacher’s influence, Ericsson stated:
“Someone I watched a lot growing up and sort of draw my interest into Formula 1 as a kid.”
Rounding out his dream grid, Ericsson selected Kimi Räikkönen, the Finnish driver he raced alongside during his own Formula 1 career, appreciating both his skills and racing longevity.
How Michael Schumacher Inspired Ericsson’s Passion for Racing
Although Marcus Ericsson has earned acclaim in the IndyCar series, including a 2022 Indy 500 victory, his initial racing passion was ignited by Formula 1, particularly by Michael Schumacher. Ericsson has openly credited Schumacher as his childhood hero, recalling moments watching races with his father as formative experiences that shaped his aspirations.
In a 2020 interview with Autoweek, Ericsson shared:
“For me, the strongest sort of memory I have from being a kid is watching Formula 1 with my dad and watching Michael Schumacher win in the red Ferrari. For me, Ferrari and Schumacher were always the ones I was looking at and wanting to be. So I would have to say Schumacher was my inspiration as a kid.”
Ericsson’s Formula 1 journey concluded in 2018 after his contract with Alfa Romeo expired, and he was succeeded by Antonio Giovinazzi for the 2019 season. Shortly after, Ericsson shifted his focus to racing full-time in the United States with Arrow Schmidt Peterson Motorsports before joining Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) and later Andretti Autosport, where he continues to compete on the 27-car IndyCar grid.
The Enduring Legacy of Ericsson’s Dream Grid Choices
By assembling a roster that spans multiple eras and showcases some of the most talented drivers in racing history, Marcus Ericsson’s dream grid serves as a tribute to the legends who inspired him throughout his career. His selections reflect a blend of personal memories, respect for raw talent, and admiration for championship success, connecting his own journey to the broader legacy of motor racing.
As Ericsson continues to compete in IndyCar, his appreciation for the sport’s history and his role within it suggests a thoughtful and reflective competitor, eager to make his own mark while honoring the achievements of those who came before him.