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Selfish Mentality After Mother’s Demise Led Michael Schumacher’s Teammate to Ridicule Him

Published 08/25/2023, 6:40 AM EDT

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In the adrenaline-fueled world of Formula 1, where relationships and rivalries are intertwined, a startling tale emerges that peels aside the glittering mask of the racing grandeur of the legendary personality Michael Schumacher. A name that is connected with fervor and an aspiration to succeed needs no introduction. Despite the praise and adulation, a part of the German ace’s career remains a low-key moment because of an upsetting incident that permanently changed the dynamics of his squad. And this is the very account that his former teammate viewed as being self-serving.

In the fourth round of the Formula 1 back in 2003 at Imola GP, the Schumacher brothers secured the top two spots in the qualifying. Following that, the two flew in a private jet to Germany to see their mother at Cologne Hospital. Their mother, who was in a coma from an internal hemorrhage, was the reason they flew to Germany in the middle of the season. Just before the race the Schumacher’s brother then dawned the hardest day having heard of their mother’s heartbreaking demise.

How does Michael Schumacher present a selfish character?

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While the audience’s questions continued to swirl regarding their participation, both of the motorists showed true character and returned to the racing track. Even though Ralf Schumacher stole the lead from his brother at the first corner, the seven-time champion then demonstrated what true ruthlessness looked like. After that, he was unstoppable, and he went on to win his 65th Grand Prix, undoubtedly the most heartbreaking victory ever.

via Getty

Although there was little cheering, Schumacher collected the podium honors with wet eyes. His colleague at the time, Rubens Barrichello ridiculed him in order to highlight this same hunger for victory. In the book Michael Schumacher: The Edge of Greatness, his 2003 partner tagged him as a selfish man. He said, ” He would do anything to win. The day his mother died, the way he fought his brother to win the race [Imola 2003] was incredible. I don’t know how the hell they went fighting like that.”

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For the champions nothing but winning has always been the driving force and when they don’t achieve their targets, their performances occasionally may reveal their vile personalities.

Lando Norris reveals the dark side of Michael Schumacher

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One thing that has been constant for the legendary people is performance. Similar to what Lando Norris recently stated, while exposing the dark side of Michael Schumacher’s personality, revealing a tale of the British driver’s karting days. Norris described how he witnessed the legendary Schumacher lose his composure due to a 13-year-old child’s non-performing effort that interfered with his son’s performance.

via Imago

Norris told Virgin Radio’s Chris Evans, “ I remember him having a bit of a scrap with one of my teammates!” recalled the McLaren driver. Michael having a go at one of my teammates, who was like 13 at the time or 14 at the time, and getting into quite an argument, which was great to watch! So that was very amusing.”

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These pieces of information serve as a reminder to us as fans that F1 drivers are also people who experience problems in life just like the rest of us. It forces us to reconsider how we view these legendary racers and acknowledge that their lives have meaning beyond the track.

WATCH THIS STORY | Why Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello Wore Red Wigs in 2000

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Written by:

Aditya Srivastava

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Aditya Srivastava is an F1 writer at EssentiallySports with over two years of writing experience. He developed a keen interest in the sport after the unforgettable Abu Dhabi 2021 race. As a graduate of a premier institute, Aditya is committed to producing high-quality content that is engaging, informative, and accurate.
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Edited by:

Aishwary Gaonkar