Michael Schumacher's son makes strong Formula 4 debut
By Associated Press
Apr 25, 2015 10:40 AM CDT
German Formula 4 driver Mick Schumacher of team Van Amersfoort walks with his best rookie award during the season kickoff in Oschersleben, Germany, Saturday, April 25, 2015, after ranking 9th in the race. He is the son of former Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher. (Jens Wolf/dpa via AP)   (Associated Press)

OSCHERSLEBEN, Germany (AP) — The teenage son of former Formula One champion Michael Schumacher made a strong debut at Formula 4 level on Saturday.

After starting in 19th position for the Van Amersfoort team, Mick Schumacher finished ninth to earn the best rookie award.

The 16-year-old Schumacher says in comments reported by news agency dpa, "Of course I'm happy that I could catch up. I didn't even think that I was best rookie. After my qualifying yesterday and starting position I'm really satisfied."

It was the first of three races on the season-opening weekend.

Schumacher's father won a record seven Formula One titles and 91 Grand Prix in a stellar career. Michael Schumacher is still recovering from serious head injuries suffered in a skiing accident on Dec. 29, 2013.

See 3 more photos