When the current drivers on the F1 grid are asked who inspired them to race, the answers are pretty much the same: Ayrton Senna, Nikki Lauda, Jackie Stewart and Alain Prost. But one name stands out the most, Michael Schumacher. Michael Schumacher is a name that everyone knows, but after being crowned a 7 time World Champion, it's hard not to be.
Michael started his Formula One career in 1991 with his debut at Spa with Jordan. However, his debut race wasn't as planned, after he retired before the end of the last lap. But he did manage to qualify in 7th place the day before, proving his worthiness. Following this, Benetton was quick to sign up the talented, young 22 year old German. Michael quickly re-payed the team with a 5th place in Monza.
In his first full season, 1992, Michael was a regular podium goer which resulted in a third place finish in the championship. The 1993 season was much like the year before with more podiums and a win, however Schumacher dropped a position to fourth overall.
1994 was the beginning of Michael Schumacher's World Championships. Michael was crowned World Champion at the last race in Adelaide however, the race did not go to plan. Damon Hill and Michael had been fighting to secure the championship throughout the season, Damon entered the final race with a one point deficit to Michael. However, both drivers crashed out in a highly controversial battle, which led Michael to be crowned the World Champion.
The following season led Michael to his second World title, with a total of 9 wins that season, ultimately removing all doubt of his championship abilities. 1996 was the year Michael moved to the iconic red colours of the Ferrari, but the car was not as powerful as he hoped, which led to a bit of a set back for the young German.
Michael Schumacher began his dominance in the years beginning 2000, in which he took five consecutive world titles. His best year was by far 2004, where he managed to win 12 of the first 13 rounds!
Unfortunately, 2005 was the start of F1's rule changes which tried to level the playing field and make the racing more competitive, ultimately leading to a disappointing season with only one win and five podiums. 2006 was the season that launched his retirement from the sport after a long stint and 7 world titles later.
After a short break from the sport, Michael made a return with Mercedes in 2010, partnering Nico Rosberg. Michael finished in ninth, with a best finish of fourth in Spain, Turkey and South Korea. The 2011 season was only slightly better with a finish of eighth overall. 2012 was the final season ever for Michael after Mercedes announced the signing of Lewis Hamilton, Schumacher was left driverless, ultimately plunging him into retirement.
Although Michael's comeback to Formula 1 wasn't what he wanted, he is and will always be a legend. Michael Schumacher rewrote the history books and has remained as the benchmark for all other F1 drivers. Michael dominated the sport and achieved the greatest amount of World Championships ever! Michael Schumacher is widely praised as the greatest of all time, undeniably seeing as he has 7 World Titles and nobody has come close to that record yet. Lewis Hamilton and Juan Manuel Fangio are the only two that have come close. Will Lewis stay in the sport long enough to match or overtake Michael's unbelievable achievements?
Michael Schumacher has 308 races to his name and has certainly made his mark with 91 victories, 68 poles and 155 podiums. Michael is the godfather of Formula One.
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