Ever since Lewis Hamilton equaled Michael Schumacher for most World Championships this season, there has been no stopping of comparisons between the two. These comparisons are becoming more frequent this offseason with everyone in the F1 community chiming in.
But most of these people either worked with one of the two, or are just giving an outside opinion. Hence, they may not have as much credibility in this debate as Nico Rosberg.
The German drove alongside Schumacher at Mercedes for three seasons, from 2010 to the end of 2012. However, Michael, making his comeback after three years, was well past his best. And from 2013, Lewis Hamilton replaced him by making a surprise switch from Mclaren.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
So, when picking between the two legends, he was firmly in his German compatriot’s corner. Believing Schumacher to be the most complete driver of all-time, he said, “The way he experienced this sport, the motivation to improve himself and the team in every conceivable area, that’s pretty huge. I don’t think that has happened a second time in Formula One.”
Schumacher was certainly the most complete racing driver of all.
However, he is not discrediting the achievements of Hamilton. Showing that there is no animosity between the two, he recognized his raw ability by saying –
“Hamilton is a natural talent, a driver from another planet. He sits in a car and is immediately fast, which is quite impressive.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rosberg’s record against Lewis Hamilton & Schumacher
Although he picked Schumacher over Hamilton, his results suggest against them suggest otherwise. In his three seasons with the former Ferrari driver, he convincingly beat him all times.
While in his four ultra-competitive seasons with the Briton, they were evenly poised till the end of the season. However, the driver with the most race wins and poles beat him 3 to 1. While Lewis kicked off Mercedes‘ golden turbo-hybrid era with titles in 2014 and 2015. Rosberg had the last laugh in 2016 and made a swift exit from the sport.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Yet again, the mindless debate continues. One cannot compare different eras, Hence, both are the respective pioneers of their time.