Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg and the German national football team drive the new A-Class

There was an adrenaline rush today at the German national football team's training camp in Tourrettes: with around two weeks to go before the start of the European Championships, Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg paid Joachim Löw's team a short visit. Like good guests should, the two Silver Arrow drivers brought along a nice surprise, namely, two brand new examples of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Lukas Podolski, Marco Reus, Andre Schürrle and Tim Wiese didn't need asking twice to complete a 18-kilometre tour of the Haute-Provence with the two drivers.

Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher took the wheel and gave the four young players from the national squad an unforgettable experience, driving along the winding country roads against the picturesque backdrop of the Côte d'Azur. "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," said a delighted Nico Rosberg. Lukas Podolski was particularly impressed by the power of the new A-Class: "This car is really lively and has plenty of power."

The new A-Class: 'The pulse of a new generation'

An agile performer on four wheels, the A-Class sets new standards in the compact car segment, combining bold design and refined sportiness without sacrificing comfort. Some of the features found in the S-Class are now available in the A-Class, providing exceptional value and quality. Marco Reus commented after the trip: "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." Michael Schumacher too was full of enthusiasm; during the ride, the self-confessed football fan took the opportunity to ask how preparations for the European Championship were going.

And what's more, later, under the critical eye of national team coach Joachim Löw, the Formula 1 drivers themselves enjoyed a kick-about with the team in the training camp. "I think we made a good impression and my invite to join the European Cup squad is already in the post," said the seven-time world champion, with a wink. As for the German team's title hopes, he remains very optimistic: "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." Michael Schumacher's special charisma has always made him a welcome guest at the national team, and team manager Oliver Bierhoff told us: "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."