Greater Noida: The astonishing seven world titles and record 91 race victories made him one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers, but in his second stint Michael Schumacher has not won a single race in almost three years.
Does this forgettable comeback hurt his legacy as one of the most celebrated drivers in the F1 world? Ask the German legend and his answer is a firm “No.”
“There will be lot of opinions. But it remains. It has not changed. I am still capable of fighting but as a team we have not managed. We win together, we lose together. But it (legacy) is not harmed personally,” Schumacher, who has decided to retire after this season, said.
He won his first titles in 1994 and 1995 and then revived Ferrari with his five consecutive titles from 2000-2004.
He chose to retire after the 2006 season, but came back in 2010 with Mercedes and has managed just one podium finish – a third place at the European Grand Prix this season has been his best comeback result.
The German said that the tough three years back have taught him a lot.
“Things have not gone according to the expectations. It’s been tough three years. We have failed as a team, criticised and that’s reasonable and acceptable. I have grown and matured and that’s what happens.”
He also said that he does not have much to regret in his career.
“Yes, in hindsight probably, you have (regrets) but most of the time I have made the right decision.”
The German, who enjoys a huge fan following in India, said he was overwhelmed by the passionate support he got from the country.
“What I take from India is the emotional fan following. It’s been surprisingly high. There are some specific groups (in the world) but here they are too many. It’s beautiful to see I am loved so much. So many people share the passion for sport I love,” he said.
Schumacher has himself said that his car is not up to expectations. Asked if he would be disappointed if he fails to go out on a high, he seemed realistic.
“I know what’s possible. If I get the maximum out of it, I am okay. Podiums and victories are different stories. There’s no point dreaming and you will be disappointed in the end for no reason.”
Lewis Hamilton will replace him in the Mercedes team in the next season and German said the team has made the right decision in picking him.
Asked what role he has played in the development of the Mercedes car for the next season, Schumacher said,”The development of car started in May. My involvement has been there. It was not [when he joined] in 2010.”
Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel is in line to win his third straight title. Asked if if he thinks his young compatriot can go on to surpass his record of seven titles, he said, he would be happy if Vettel does that.
“Records are meant to be broken. If Vettel gets it, I would be very happy for him.” (PTI)