It was the year 2005, and the San Marino Grand Prix was underway, a pivotal moment in the history of Formula 1. It marked the arrival of a new era as Fernando Alonso took his third consecutive victory out of the total four rounds held until then and the beginning of Michael Schumacher’s downfall. 18 years have passed since then, and both drivers are now held in the highest regard. 

At the 2005 San Marino Grand Prix, the tension was high as two of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history, Michael Schumacher and Alonso, went head-to-head in a thrilling battle for the top spot on the podium. However, eventually, it was Alonso who claimed the top spot with a margin of just 0.215 seconds! But this number doesn’t tell how fierce the battle was.

Entering the season, Schumacher had been dominating the sport for over a decade, winning seven World Championships and setting numerous records. Alonso, on the other hand, was a young and talented driver who was quickly making a name for himself. Despite a poor start to the season, Schumacher was determined to turn things around. It was remarkable how he started 13th and almost managed to chase out Alonso. Nevertheless, kudos to Alonso as well, who fended off a fierce challenge and held his ground. Dropping the sass as a youngster, he was quick to remind everyone that it was his third win of the season.

Looking back at this, the moment was purely Alonso’s arrival on the grandest stage. Here, everyone knew who was going to be the one charging toward the championship, and it wasn’t Michael. So, the fans were proven right as the Spaniard took the first championship of his season, dethroning Michael, who was on a hot streak of five championships with Ferrari.

The fierce Fernando Alonso-Michael Schumacher battle has fans jumping

Alonso in his RS25 and Michael in his F2005 raced down to the wire. Such battles were a regular sight in the sport which has been fairly reduced since the arrival of the DRS. In the clip, the close action in the “compact” cars also dealt a huge blow to Schumacher’s ability.

Looking back at it, one of the fans said, “The best drivers.”, while the other added, “The best memory I have of Shumi-Fer. Marvelous.”

READ MORE: Max Verstappen Eye-Watering Dominance Tipped to Not Affect F1’s Dollar-Seeking Ambitions: “Not as Important”

On the other hand, one was quick to thank the absence of DRS: “Thanks god we didn’t have DRS those days”.

WATCH THIS STORY: Bromance moments between Max Verstappen & Lewis Hamilton

For many, it’s tough to even process that this legendary battle took place 18 years ago. Certainly, time flies by. To end it on a perfect note from a fan: “18 years ago today, a young Spaniard won the race with an epic defense against the 7-time world champion legend, sending the message to Schumi that I will dethrone you.”