Seven world championships. Second on the all-time wins list. For many years of his Formula 1 career, Michael Schumacher’s success seemed assured. But, as a new documentary about F1 TV details, his first drivers’ title with Ferrari came as part of a remarkable comeback story.
In Best comebacks: Michael Schumacherthose who were there remember the story of Schumacher’s eventful journey to the championship in 2000. His manager Sabine Kehm explains why, despite high hopes, big questions remained for Schumacher and Ferrari ahead of the 1999 season.
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The driver’s title was cut short eight races at Silverstone, where he suffered a broken leg in a high-speed crash. Kehm gives an insight into Schumacher’s fears about the severity of the accident, while orthopedics professor Bill Ribbans reveals what Ferrari boss Jean Todt told him before operating on Schumacher’s ‘best friend’.
The documentary examines the interesting dynamic that developed as Ferrari team-mate Eddie Irvine fought for the championship while Schumacher recovered, and how a determined Schumacher trained harder than ever before the 2000 season.
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Kehm recalls the concerns as Mika Hakkinen built a lead in the title battle, before explaining why emotions were particularly high for Schumacher during a memorable weekend win at Monza. He went on to win the title at Suzuka and Kehm reveals why he was perhaps the ‘most special’ of Schumacher’s standings.
Schumacher’s legacy is reflected, including why he “redefined” what it takes to be an F1 driver operating at the highest level, as well as leaving a lasting impact in his work both on and off the track.
Click here let me see Best comebacks: Michael Schumacher on F1 TV. You can also find every episode of the series so far by clicking here.