F1 Throwback: When Michael Schumacher and Jean Todt Appeared in a Movie

In Formula One, Michael Schumacher is a household name, especially when paired with Scuderia Ferrari. Even non-F1 fans and casual F1 fans will have heard about the iconic German legend. Given his popularity, it wouldn’t be surprising that his name would feature in popular culture.

However, Hollywood has only come knocking on two occasions. The first time was in 2006 with a small cameo appearance in the Pixar movie, Cars. His second and only other movie appearance was another cameo, but a longer one. He and former Ferrari team boss Jean Todt appeared in the 2008 French movie, Asterix at the Olympic Games.

What role did Michael Schumacher play in the movie?

Apparently, Michael Schumacher plays a chariot driver called Schumix, and Todt’s character is ‘Patron de Schumix’. Coincidentally, Schumacher, Todt and the actors posing as the chariot crew were dressed in red robes, an obvious nod to Scuderia Ferrari.

During the race, Schumix represents Germany, and pitted against Gaul(France), Rome, Egypt, Greece and Spain. the short cameo also featured the crew performing a Formula One pit stop. Sadly, for F1 fans, Schumacher ended up third, behind the Romans and the Gauls. However, next to Germany’s name came the words, “Forever the Best”.

Unfortunately, the movie, Asterix at the Olympic Games is only available in French. It is also worth noting that Schumacher is not the only sporting celebrity cameo in the French film. Other notable appearances include Zinedine Zidane, Amelie Mauresmo and Tony Parker.

The movie’s setting is during the ancient Roman era. Asterix at the Olympic Games is also based on a classic series of French children’s comic books. The film is live action instead of going down the animated route. As it turned out, the original movie explored that avenue. Schumi even sported a rather amusing haircut, which was done in a mullet.

It is also noteworthy that Schumacher’s cameo was the longest out of any of the other sportspersons. This is because, he actually participated in one of the events. Meanwhile the likes of Zidane, Parker and Mauresmo featured away from the playing field.