Last Updated on December 13 2023, 10:44 pm
In a heartfelt tribute to one of Formula One’s most iconic figures, Lewis Hamilton has expressed his deep admiration for Michael Schumacher in the new German documentary series ‘Being Michael Schumacher’.
The documentary, which is airing exclusively in Germany, delves into the life and legacy of the Ferrari legend and features insights from various F1 personalities, including Hamilton.
The new Schumacher documentary
Being Michael Schumacher, a documentary from the German ARD Media Library, offers a rare and compelling glimpse into the life of one of Formula 1’s greatest legends.
The film delves deep into the journey of Michael Schumacher, a man who not only dominated the race tracks with his extraordinary talent but also captivated millions with his relentless pursuit of success and his complex personality.
The early years: A foundation for greatness
The documentary begins with a poignant look at Schumacher’s early life in Kerpen, Germany. It paints a picture of a young boy with an insatiable appetite for speed and competition, nurtured by a supportive family. His father’s role in developing his racing skills from his karting days is highlighted, emphasising the family’s sacrifice and commitment to nurturing his budding talent.
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Reaching the pinnacle of motorsport
“Being Michael Schumacher” details his meteoric rise in the world of motorsport. From his debut with Jordan to his first win with Benetton, the documentary captures the determination and raw skill that propelled Schumacher into the Formula One spotlight.
It reveals his unique driving style, his strategic brilliance and his ability to get the most out of his machines, traits that would soon define his career.
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The Ferrari era: Redefining success
Arguably the most compelling section of the documentary focuses on Schumacher’s years at Ferrari. It’s an in-depth look at how he transformed the team into an unbeatable force, winning five consecutive world championships.
This part of his life story is a testament to his leadership, technical acumen and emotional connection with the team and its fans. The film also explores the intense pressure and scrutiny he faced, both from within the sport and from the media.
Controversies and rivalries
True to its objective nature, the documentary does not shy away from the controversies that peppered Schumacher’s career. From his aggressive driving tactics to strategic gambles and on-track collisions, it presents a balanced view of the incidents that sometimes overshadowed his achievements.
It discusses his rivalries and the intense competitive environment of Formula One, offering insights into the mind of a man who was always driven to win, sometimes at any cost.
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Personal life and legacy
One of the most moving aspects of Being Michael Schumacher is its portrayal of his life off the track. The documentary touches on his charitable work, his role as a family man and his influence as a mentor to young drivers. It also looks at his tragic skiing accident and the outpouring of support from fans around the world, underlining his influence not only as a sporting icon but as a beloved public figure.
How to watch new Schumacher documentary outside of Germany
If you’re outside of Germany and looking to watch this documentary, here are a few steps you can take:
- Check ARD’s International Availability: First, visit the ARD’s media library (ARD Mediathek) online to see if the documentary is available for streaming in your region. Some content might be geo-restricted, but it’s worth checking as some programs are available internationally.
- Use a VPN Service: If the documentary is geo-restricted, one common method to access it is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN allows you to set your internet connection to appear as if it is coming from a different country – in this case, Germany. This can give you access to region-locked content. Remember to choose a reliable and reputable VPN service.
- Look for International Broadcasts or Streaming Services: Sometimes documentaries like this are picked up by international broadcasters or streaming platforms after their initial release. Keep an eye on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, or sports-specific streaming services, as they might acquire the rights to show the documentary.
- Check on Social Media and Official Channels: Follow the official social media accounts related to Michael Schumacher or Formula 1. They might provide updates on where and how the documentary can be viewed internationally.
- DVDs or Digital Purchase: In some cases, documentaries are released on DVD or for digital purchase shortly after their initial airing. Check platforms like Amazon or eBay for a DVD, or digital stores like iTunes or Google Play for a digital version.
- Wait for Film Festivals or Special Screenings: Sometimes, documentaries are shown at international film festivals or through special screenings. Keep an eye out for any such events in your area.
A racer’s respect: Hamilton on Schumacher’s legacy
Lewis Hamilton, himself a seven-time F1 world champion, shared his views on Schumacher’s impact on the sport. Having raced against Schumacher for three seasons from 2010, when the German made his comeback, Hamilton had a unique vantage point from which to observe the legend’s prowess on the track.
Following Schumacher’s retirement in 2012, Hamilton followed in his footsteps at Mercedes, further intertwining their careers in F1 history.
In the documentary, Hamilton refers to Schumacher as “an absolutely great racer”, highlighting his relentless drive and exceptional talent. He specifically mentions Schumacher’s victory at Imola in 1994, a race overshadowed by the tragic death of Ayrton Senna, Hamilton’s hero. “He won the race when Ayrton died. He was winning everything!” Hamilton remarked.
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Fernando Alonso: Reflecting on Schumacher’s influence
Joining Hamilton in the documentary is Fernando Alonso, the two-time world champion who often competed against Schumacher. Alonso is candid about his experiences of competing against Schumacher, acknowledging both his wins and losses against the German maestro.
Alonso praises Schumacher for revolutionising the approach to racing, from physical preparation to the work ethic during race weekends.
“He changed the way you approach racing, the physical preparation, the determination, the work ethic during the weekend with the engineers, a lot of things in the sport changed because of Michael – for the better,” notes Alonso, acknowledging Schumacher’s lasting influence on Formula One.
The privacy of a legend: Schumacher’s current state
The documentary also touches on Schumacher’s life following his near-fatal skiing accident in December 2013. His wife, Corinna Schumacher, has been a steadfast guardian of his privacy ever since. Schumacher’s current medical condition remains largely private, with the world respecting the family’s wishes for discretion as he continues his recovery.
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“Being Michael Schumacher”: An exclusive look at an F1 icon
“Being Michael Schumacher” promises to be a compelling and insightful series, providing a unique insight into the life of one of the greatest drivers in Formula One history.
The five-part German-language series will premiere on 14 December 2023 on ARD, giving German audiences an exclusive insight into the legacy of a racing legend.
The documentary highlights not only Schumacher’s unparalleled achievements on the track, but also the respect and admiration he commands from his fellow drivers. From Hamilton’s tribute to Alonso’s reflections, it is clear that Michael Schumacher’s influence extends far beyond the racetrack, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and its champions.
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Hamilton loves Michael Schumaker as much as he loves the other Michael, the Masi! Hamilton, as all F1 fans have now come to realize, is full of himself and will never accept anyone else as a “Great Driver”. Schumaker was lucky that he was not racing at a time when Toto and Hamilton were acting out their political games in tandem. Had he been, he would have received bad mouth just like how Alonso, and then Verstappen were subjected to the worst form of vitriol.
Hamilton’s recent fortunes seem to have FINALLY taught him some humility. He has even grudgingly conceded Verstappen’s superior driving skills. All he has to do is win just one race and we can see, naturally Toto joining the two-man chorus, the return of the full sweep of Hamilton’s arrogant and disgusting crowing from the rooftops.
His fortunes will not turn until he admits to his deliberate attempt to eliminate his competitor in Silverstone 2021. The poor Ham cult are too blind to see his deliberate jink into Verstappen and immediately yelling afterwards “He turned in on me. he turned in on me”, the most egregious of his lies. If it were not so cruel, his claims of ‘the most sporting driver’ would be hilarious.
Every time one sees in the archives the on board from Hamilton’s car in that gruesome episode, their blood is sure to boil. Then it takes one to view Turn 5 in AD 21 to assuage their anger and outrage.
You Are completely wrong but I guess the name say’s it all people from the sub continent never tell the truth about anything