On 23rd May 2012, the German national football team's training camp located in Tourrettes experienced new heights of excitement. The national coach Joachim Low and his squad were visited by Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, just two weeks ahead of the European Championship. And they were not empty handed too; along with them were two brand-new Mercedes Benz A-Class models, much to the surprise of the players. There was not an iota of hesitation when Lukas Podolski, Marco Reus, Andre Schürrle and Tim Wiese were asked to take an 18 km tour of the Haute-Provence in the company of both the drivers.
Driving along twisting country roads against the scenic landscape of the Côte d’Azur, Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher provided the four young players a ride to remember. Nico Rosberg said, “The A-Class with its sporty handling is perfect for twisty roads like this, and we showed the guys just what the car can do.” The car did not fail to impress Lukas Podolski either, as he commented, “This car is really lively and has plenty of power.”
The new A-Class has set new benchmarks in its segment with a combination of bold design and elegant sportiness, without losing out on the comfort factor. This powerful performer is aptly tagged ‘The Pulse of A New Generation’. Ensuring brilliant value for money and quality, the A-Class now comes with some of the features which are available in the S-Class. Marco Reus exclaimed, “The A-Class is very close to the pulse of my generation. It’s very sporty in appearance, yet elegant. And to be driven by a living legend like Michael Schumacher, life hardly gets any better.”
Being a self confessed football fan, Michael Schumacher was thrilled during the drive with the national players as well and questioned them about preparation for European Championship. Later, the training camp also saw both the drivers enjoy a game with the team under the vigilant eye of Joachim Low. Schumacher later said, “I think we made a good impression and my invite to join the European Cup squad is already in the post.”
Optimistic about German team's chances at the title, the seven-time world champion Schumacher said, “Here in Tourrettes, I’ve seen a highly motivated young team that is incredibly hungry for success. Being so determined gives them their best chance of victory.” The national team always welcomes the driver enthusiastically due to his genuine charisma. Oliver Bierhoff, Manager, National Football Team, Germany, said, “Michael Schumacher is a huge idol for our young players, and they can benefit tremendously from his experience and advice when the pressure is on.”
