Nearly twenty years after pivotal moments in Formula One history, Jean Todt provides a simple appraisal of Michael Schumacher’s career.
With time, the truth will surface. Nearly two decades after some of the most contentious incidents in contemporary Formula One, Jean Todt has provided a compelling reconsideration of the Michael Schumacher instances. He used to be a staunch supporter of his driver, but he now admits that the German intentionally violated the line many times.
A look back on the 2006 Monaco Grand Prix. During qualifying, Schumacher pulled his Ferrari to a stop at Rascasse, resulting in yellow flags that stopped Fernando Alonso from improving his time.
At the time, Todt aggressively opposed the stewards’ punishment, alleging a basic driving error: “We completely disagree with this decision.”
Jean Todt reveals all
But over two decades later, the story has shifted dramatically. In the High Performance podcast, reported by Nextgen-Auto, Todt now admits that the move was intentional: “In 2006 in Monaco, during qualifying with Alonso, he deliberately spun out.” “He had to start from the back of the grid, which cost him the championship.”
Another legendary moment was revisited: Schumacher’s crash with Jacques Villeneuve in the 1997 championship decider at Jerez. As the Canadian tried a decisive overtaking, the German went wide and crashed into his rival’s Williams. Todt no longer attempts to minimise it: “In 1997, we lost the title in the final race due to this dubious pass. Michael made an error. He went for contact deliberately, but he failed to execute it well.
According to him, these two instances cost Schumacher dearly, not just in terms of championships, but also in terms of legacy. Regrets that are even more relevant now.
The actual face of Schumacher
Aside from these revelations, Todt provides a more personal portrayal of his former driver, whom he worked with at Ferrari from 1996 to 2006. Far from the image of a cold and controlling champion, he depicts a guy who is far more sensitive than he appears: “Michael is a really vulnerable person. He’s not someone who believes he understands everything better than others.”
Over time, their connection evolved from simply business to personal. This deep link now positions Jean Todt among the few individuals who know Michael Schumacher’s health: “Very fast, it developed from a business relationship to a friendship and practically a family relationship. After 1997, he realised that he was safe and loved, which changed everything.”
