Vettel and Schumacher present for the 2009 Race of Champions

Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher have been confirmed as the German representatives for the Race of Champions (ROC). Having taken place in London at the heart of Wembley Stadium for the past two years, the event will move to China in 2009 to the symbolic ‘Bird’s Nest’, the stadium from the last Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Schumacher will therefore be present again for this competition. He will be joined by current Red Bull Racing driver, Sebastian Vettel. The duo will once again join forces to help Germany win the Nations Cup.

« I always take great pleasure in participating in the ‘Race of Champions,’ » said the seven-time F1 world champion, who, like the rest of the competitors, will be racing with prestigious and surprising cars. The former Ferrari driver will attempt to win the crown after failing in the final twice in the past.

« It’s the perfect combination of on-track battles, fun, and meeting with the public. Spectators love this event because they feel a special atmosphere. »

« I am really looking forward to participating in this race, and I’m curious to see how the Chinese spectators will react to our craziest shows right inside the Olympic stadium. I’m sure they will love this event that has entertained many European motorsport fans for over 20 years, » he added.

Michael Schumacher also wants to emphasize that this event will help raise funds for the ICM, a leading institution specializing in brain and spinal cord disorders.

For the first time in history, the 2009 event will take place midweek, on Tuesday, November 3 and Wednesday, November 4, right after the last Grand Prix of the season in Abu Dhabi.