Ralf Schumacher has addressed claims that he resents the global attention and success surrounding Lewis Hamilton‘s F1 achievements, stating that such accusations are unfounded. The discussion arose following Max Verstappen’s defeat by Lando Norris last season, which left the record of Schumacher’s brother Michael—five back-to-back Formula 1 championships—still unbeaten.
Refuting Speculation Around Championship Records
Questions emerged about whether Ralf, a former Formula 1 race winner, felt strongly about Michael’s championship record remaining intact. The German made it clear he sees no personal stake in the record’s preservation, explaining that each era of Formula 1 brings new drivers to the forefront who deserve recognition in their own right.
He focused on the progression of the sport, emphasizing that comparing champions from different periods—such as his brother Michael Schumacher and modern stars like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen—is not meaningful to him.
Recognition for Hamilton and Verstappen’s Achievements
In a recent interview, Ralf Schumacher dismissed the idea of being bothered by Hamilton or Verstappen’s successes. He was direct when questioned about the importance of championship streaks, stating:
“No, I don’t care about that at all. You can’t compare these things. Michael was and remains the best driver of his time. Of course, the world moves on, new drivers come along – I didn’t care about that with Lewis Hamilton, and I don’t care about it with Max either.”
He further addressed the public perception that he harbors resentment, remarking:
“I was often accused of being jealous, especially by the British, with the argument that Hamilton theoretically has eight titles and is better than Michael. That’s complete nonsense. Any driver who is as successful as Hamilton and Verstappen absolutely deserves it.”
— Ralf Schumacher, Former F1 Race Winner
Context Within F1 and Media Narratives
Recent years have seen continental drivers and commentators, including Max Verstappen, express frustrations with the British press’s framing of Formula 1 debates. This tension has sometimes led to narratives around favoritism or rivalry sparked by media commentary and national loyalties.
Schumacher’s statements aim to set aside these disputes, instead choosing to recognize current drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen for their deserved places among the top competitors in the sport. He maintains that Michael Schumacher’s record stands on its own merit, while acknowledging that every generation will bring forward new talent and achievements.
The debate over records and legacy in Formula 1 is likely to continue as new champions rise and historic achievements are tested by the next generation of drivers. For now, Schumacher’s response underlines a focus on respect for excellence, regardless of national or generational divides.
