Once a Formula 1 driver, always a Formula 1 driver. Not just a phrase, but after the accounts of many, the reality of the sport. One such account from Ferrari’s former boss also details the valuable lessons he learned during his time with the team. However, more than the team, it was a particular man that taught him lessons he still carries with him. The man? Michael Schumacher!

Schumacher not only became a winner on the track but also became a leader off of it. The legendary driver’s charisma consumed many and Ferrari’s former boss Mattia Binotto was one among them. After his switch from Benetton, the young Italian engineer met Michael Schumacher. The Italian learned some lessons, as reported by Formula Passion, that he still follows.

Binotto, in a meeting at the Panathlon Club in Parma, said, “He was an extraordinary driver for what he won and proved to be, but also for his generosity, charisma and leadership. And I believe that we brought that mentality to our subsequent experiences as well.” (Translated via Google)

“I still carry it with me today in my professional career. – As a team principal, I also tried to remember what the culture of the time was and how to apply it. At the time we raced and tested continuously, so it was 210 days a year on the track, it was more time I spent with Michael than with my family: I’ve always said that in Ferrari you don’t work, you live there,” he added.

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However, despite such influence and leadership qualities, the German never wanted to be a team principal. Although let us give you more examples as to why he would make an incredible boss.

Another Mattia Binotto revelation highlights the incredible dedication of Michael Schumacher

The former boss was with Ferrari for a long time. During his time, he saw the rise of Michael Schumacher at Ferrari from a young age. However, his first meeting alone was enough to showcase the German’s mentality.

“We were used to Alesi and Berger, two riders I am very fond of. At 9 in the morning.” He said and added, “When Michael came to us, on the other hand, the first time we arrived at Estoril at 8.30. He told us that at 8 we had to have meetings every morning, to talk about the program and decide what to do, in order to then have maximum efficiency at 9.”

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This is the kind of dedication that wins a driver seven world championships. Schumacher is undoubtedly on the top of the Formula 1 pecking order. If there were any lingering doubts, these accounts by Binotto should be enough to solidify his No. 1 status.