F1 Belgian GP: How a Simple Arrest Aided Michael Schumacher to Create Historic F1 Legacy

“Legend” is a word that is synonymous with Michael Schumacher for every F1 fan. As the man who put Formula 1 on the map of world sports, the 7-time World Champion is perhaps one of the greatest racers in history. However, the story of his debut in F1 is indeed an interesting one! The German stepped into Formula 1 in 1991 as a substitute for Bertrand Gachot. Funnily enough, if the Belgian hadn’t gone behind bars, Schumi would not have gotten his big break at all!

Just like his enormous list of F1 records, Michael Schumacher’s career is also quite vast. While taking part in several junior leagues, the Kaiser stayed on the sidelines of Formula 1 as he hoped to get a seat. Now, Jordan racer Bertrand Gachot ran into some bad luck before the ’91 Belgian GP. While he was in England, Gachot ran into an argument with a taxi driver. And the F1 racer brought out a pepper spray to use it on him. At that time, the United Kingdom had restrictions on the use of pepper spray as a self-defense tool, and thus they arrested Bertrand Gachot.

As per Gazzetta Motori, Jordan went on a manhunt to find a replacement for Gachot and they took up Michael Schumacher. In just his first race in Formula 1, he grabbed attention despite retiring from the Belgian GP. Seeing that his talent was undeniable, Benetton signed Michael for the rest of 1991. And this started an epic journey for a legendary racer who still holds a place in the hearts of all F1 fans. So, how did the Belgian GP unfold in 1991?

Take a look at Michael Schumacher’s debut in the 1991 Belgian GP

Thanks to its iconic chicanes and deceitful turns, the Spa circuit is a challenge to every racer on Earth. But it’s only befitting that Michael Schumacher made his debut on a race track like Spa. The 44-lap race saw Ayrton Senna grab the top spot as he extended his World Championship lead over Nigel Mansell.

Coming to Michael Schumacher, the Jordan debutant, had started the race in P7. But as he went around the Eau Rouge, his clutch failed. Thus, he had to retire early from the race. A year later, he returned to the same track and won his first-ever F1 race at the Belgian GP 1992.

But in 2013, Michael Schumacher, the man, the myth, and the legend, had an accident while on vacation. Even now, he is comatose while his son Mick is trying to uphold the family name. Recently, reports have claimed that the young German might make his way into F1 again with Alpine. So, dearest readers, comment below if you think Mick’s entry into F1 is possible.