Michael Schumacher had always been a huge admirer of the four-time world champion, Sebastian Vettel. Moreover, the Ferrari legend played a crucial role in helping Vettel secure his third world championship title in 2012 after the then Red Bull driver almost lost it in Brazil due to a dramatic lap 1 spin.

Vettel was amidst a fightback after ending up last by the end of lap 1. And during the closing stages of the race, the Red Bull driver was right behind the seven-time world champion. The latter could have defended hard and denied Vettel a way past which could have spiced up the title fight with the then Ferrari driver, Fernando Alonso.

However, Schumacher rather offered a final gift to his fellow German colleague before retiring from F1 by slowing down his Mercedes and letting him by.

And, well, Vettel continued to charge forward and clinched his third consecutive title for Red Bull. Then arrived 2013, a season that witnessed Vettel ease past the entire grid to secure a straightforward fourth title.

Hence, following the one-sided campaign, Schumacher heaved a huge sigh of relief that Vettel, at no point, ended up being his teammate.

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Michael Schumacher lauds Sebastian Vettel

During an interview in 2013, Schumacher opined that Vettel is one of the most deserving world champions in F1. Hence, the German racing legend also had a wish – if anyone’s going to break all the F1 records, it should be Vettel.

“Great job! Very consistent! Look at his teammate. That’s the reference point you gotta take. I mean, he won all those races… 13 this year I think. Mark Webber, he won none,” he said.

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“In the end, if I’m right, that’s pretty shocking. I mean, glad I’m not his teammate. But, definitely, he’s the world’s true champion and I’m really happy for him and if somebody can break all of the records, I’d prefer him to be than somebody else.”

Overall, what a glorious four-year stint that was by Vettel. The entire grid was fearing the German who almost always idolized Schumacher and even showed signs of resemblance to the racing legend. Unfortunately, here he stands, after a tough set of years with Ferrari, looking to revive his form at Aston Martin. But, can the 34-year-old return to winning ways? Or is it too late?

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