History of Michael Schumacher in Timeline

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Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher is a retired German Formula One racer widely regarded as one of the sport's greatest. He holds a record-tying seven World Drivers' Championship titles. Until his retirement, he held records for the most wins, pole positions, and podium finishes. He currently maintains the record for the most fastest laps. Schumacher raced from 1991-2006 and later returned to the sport from 2010-2012.

1 hour ago : F1 drivers' Indy 500 opinions: Ricciardo defends, Schumacher's takedown, Hamilton's view.

Daniel Ricciardo defends F1 drivers amid IndyCar perceptions. Michael Schumacher once criticized the Indy 500. The article explores F1 drivers' opinions on IndyCar racing, featuring Schumacher, Ricciardo and Hamilton.

1955: Mercedes Returns to F1 as Constructor

In 1955, Mercedes returned to Formula One as a constructor for the first time, before Michael Schumacher rejoined the team in 2010.

1961: Original founding of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association in 1961

The Grand Prix Drivers' Association, a representative body, was originally set up in 1961.

January 1969: Michael Schumacher Born

In January 1969, Michael Schumacher was born in Hürth, North Rhine-Westphalia, West Germany, into a working-class family.

1970: Brabham's Podium Finish

In 1970, Brabham finished second at the British Grand Prix, the last time an older driver achieved a podium finish before Schumacher's third place at the European Grand Prix in 2012.

1970: Jack Brabham Last Oldest Driver to Lead a Race

In 1970, Jack Brabham was the oldest driver to lead a race until Michael Schumacher in the Japanese Grand Prix in 2011.

1970: Jochen Rindt's Domination

In 1970, Jochen Rindt's domination was later equalled by Michael Schumacher. Rindt was German but raced under the Austrian flag, and was the only posthumous Drivers' Champion.

1979: Last Drivers' Championship before Schumacher

In 1979, Ferrari last won the Drivers' Championship before Schumacher joined the team.

1979: Piquet's qualifying streak start

In 1979, Piquet started a 36-race streak of outqualifying his teammates.

1979: Ferrari's first Drivers' Championship since 1979

Schumacher beat Häkkinen for his first World Championship at Ferrari and the team's first Drivers' Championship since the 1979 season.

1982: Ferrari close to the championship

In 1982, Ferrari came close to the championship

1982: Niki Lauda's Comeback

In 1982, Niki Lauda came out of a two-year retirement to race for McLaren, setting a precedent for high-profile Formula One comebacks, like Michael Schumacher's return to F1.

1982: Piquet's qualifying streak end

In 1982, Piquet's 36-race streak of outqualifying his teammates ended.

1982: Disbandment of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association in 1982

The Grand Prix Drivers' Association, originally set up in 1961, had been disbanded in 1982.

1983: Last Constructors' Championship before Schumacher

In 1983, Ferrari last won the Constructors' Championship before Schumacher joined the team.

1983: Ferrari's last title

In 1983, Ferrari won the Constructors' Championship, the team's first title since 1983.

1983: Received German Kart License

In 1983, Michael Schumacher obtained his German kart license, a year after winning the German Junior Kart Championship.

1984: Lauda Wins Third Title

In 1984, Niki Lauda won his third world title after coming out of retirement in 1982, a feat that added to the anticipation surrounding Michael Schumacher's own comeback to Formula One.

1985: Joined Eurokart Dealer Adolf Neubert

In 1985, Michael Schumacher joined Eurokart dealer Adolf Neubert and won the direct-drive Karting European Championship (ICA).

1985: Senna's qualifying sessions start

In 1985, Senna started a streak of 44 consecutive qualifying sessions.

1987: German and European Kart Champion

By 1987, Michael Schumacher was the German and European kart champion and quit school to begin working as a mechanic.

1987: Victory at the European Championship

In 1987, Michael Schumacher won the European Championship in karting, marking a culmination of his successful karting career.

1988: Move into single-seat car racing

In 1988, Michael Schumacher transitioned into single-seat car racing by participating in the German Formula Ford and Formula König series, winning the latter.

1988: Senna's qualifying sessions end

In 1988, Senna ended a streak of 44 consecutive qualifying sessions.

1989: Finished third in German Formula Three

In 1989, Michael Schumacher finished third in the German Formula Three, which he entered after dominating Formula König in his debut season.

1989: Signed with WTS Formula Three team

In 1989, Michael Schumacher signed with Willi Weber's WTS Formula Three team.

1989: Drivers' Championship decided in a similar manner

The Drivers' Championship in 1989 was decided in a similar manner to Schumacher's championship win.

1990: Ferrari close to the championship

In 1990, Ferrari came close to the championship

1990: Ferrari's last 1-2 finish before 1998

In 1990, Ferrari had their last 1-2 finish before the 1-2 finish at the French Grand Prix in 1998.

1990: Won German Formula Three Title

In 1990, Michael Schumacher won the German Formula Three Championship, also claiming the Macau Grand Prix.

1990: Won German Formula Three Championship and Macau Grand Prix

In 1990, Michael Schumacher won the German Formula Three Championship. He also won the 1990 Macau Grand Prix under controversial circumstances, driving to victory without a rear wing after an incident with Mika Häkkinen.

1990: Won season finale at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez

In 1990, Michael Schumacher won the season finale at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in a Sauber–Mercedes C11, and finished fifth in the Drivers' Championship.

1990: Joined Mercedes-Benz junior racing programme

In 1990, along with Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Karl Wendlinger, Michael Schumacher joined the Mercedes-Benz junior racing program in the World Sportscar Championship.

1990: Drivers' Championship decided in a similar manner

The Drivers' Championship in 1990 was decided in a similar manner to Schumacher's championship win.

1991: Incident with Derek Warwick at Nürburgring

During the 1991 430 km of Nürburgring, Michael Schumacher was involved in an incident with Derek Warwick. He swerved his Sauber into Warwick's Jaguar XJR-14, leading to a confrontation in the pits.

1991: Ferrari's drought

In 1991, Ferrari had a drought.

1991: Formula One Debut at Belgian Grand Prix

In 1991, Michael Schumacher made his Formula One debut with Jordan at the Belgian Grand Prix. His performance led to Benetton signing him for the rest of the season.

1991: Won at Autopolis in Japan

In 1991, Michael Schumacher won at Autopolis in Japan with a Sauber–Mercedes-Benz C291, finishing ninth in the Drivers' Championship. He also finished fifth at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

1991: First Winless Year Since 1991

In 2010, Michael Schumacher finished the season in ninth place with 72 points. It marked the first time since 1991 that Schumacher concluded a year without securing a win, pole position, podium finish, or fastest lap.

1991: Finished 1991 season

Michael Schumacher finished the 1991 Formula One season with four points out of six races, achieving a best finish of fifth at the Italian Grand Prix.

1992: Residency in Fontvieille district in Monaco began in 1992

From 1992, Schumacher resided in the Fontvieille district in Monaco.

1992: First podium finish and first F1 victory

In 1992, Michael Schumacher achieved his first podium finish at the Mexican Grand Prix and his first Formula One victory at the Belgian Grand Prix.

1992: First F1 Victory at Belgian Grand Prix

In 1992, Michael Schumacher achieved his maiden Formula One victory at the Belgian Grand Prix. He also secured several podium finishes during the season.

1992: Finished third in Drivers' Championship

In 1992, Michael Schumacher finished third in the Drivers' Championship with 53 points, surpassing teammate Martin Brundle, which led to Brundle being fired.

1992: End of qualifying streak

In 1992, Schumacher's 56-race streak of outqualifying his teammates came to an end after he missed a gear in qualifying at the Australian Grand Prix and was outqualified by Piquet.

1993: Victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix

In 1993, Michael Schumacher achieved several podiums, including a victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix.

1993: Won Portuguese Grand Prix

In 1993, Michael Schumacher won the Portuguese Grand Prix, beating Alain Prost, and achieved nine podium finishes. He finished the season in fourth place with 52 points.

1993: Prost's record for most career wins

In the 2001 Belgian Grand Prix, Schumacher scored his 52nd career win, breaking Prost's record for most career wins that had stood since 1993.

1994: Controversy in the 1994 World Championship season final

During the 1994 World Championship season final, Schumacher was involved in a controversy that arose from his will-to-win mentality.

1994: Investigation for breaking FIA-imposed ban on electronic aids

Following the San Marino Grand Prix, in 1994, Benetton, Ferrari, and McLaren were investigated for potentially violating the FIA ban on electronic aids. Benetton's software was deemed a form of launch control, but there was no evidence of its use.

1994: Won First Drivers' Championship

In 1994, Michael Schumacher won his first Drivers' Championship. He won the first four races and finished the season with eight wins. Schumacher also witnessed the death of Ayrton Senna during the San Marino Grand Prix.

1994: Mansell Wins Australian Grand Prix

In 1994, Nigel Mansell won the Australian Grand Prix at the age of 41, the same age Michael Schumacher turned in 2010, leading to comparisons regarding their careers.

1994: Schumacher cites Benetton's damaging actions

In 1994, Schumacher cited Benetton's damaging actions as his reason for opting out of his deal with the team.

1994: Narrowly Missed World Championship in 1994

In 1994, Schumacher narrowly missed winning the World Championship, despite arguably driving an inferior car.

1994: Schumacher helped relaunch the Grand Prix Drivers' Association in 1994

Schumacher helped to relaunch the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, originally set up in 1961 and disbanded in 1982, in 1994.

August 1995: Marriage to Corinna Betsch in August 1995

In August 1995, Schumacher married Corinna Betsch, marking the beginning of their family life.

1995: Ferrari improved into a solid competitor

At the end of 1995, although Ferrari had improved into a solid competitor, it was still considered inferior to front-running teams like Benetton and Williams.

1995: Ferrari's drought

In 1995, Ferrari had a drought.

1995: Second World Drivers' Championship

In 1995, Michael Schumacher defended his title and won his second World Drivers' Championship, with nine Grand Prix victories.

1995: Schumacher defends title with Benetton

In 1995, Michael Schumacher successfully defended his title with Benetton, which now had the same Renault engine as Williams. He accumulated 33 more points than second-placed Hill and helped Benetton secure its first Constructors' Championship. He also became the youngest two-time World Champion in Formula One history.

1995: Domination in the 1995 World Championship

Schumacher dominated the 1995 World Championship, showcasing his exceptional driving skills.

1996: Schumacher finishes third in the Drivers' Championship

In 1996, Michael Schumacher finished third in the Drivers' Championship and helped Ferrari to second place in the Constructors' Championship. He won three races, including the Spanish Grand Prix and the Belgian Grand Prix.

1996: Schumacher joins Ferrari

In 1996, Michael Schumacher joined Ferrari for a salary of $60 million over two years.

1996: Return to top-level karting

In 1996, Michael Schumacher returned to top-level karting, winning both the Monaco Kart Cup in Formula A and the Masters of Paris-Bercy.

1996: Residency in Fontvieille district in Monaco ended in 1996

In 1996, Schumacher ended his residency in the Fontvieille district in Monaco.

1997: Controversy in the 1997 World Championship season final

During the 1997 World Championship season final, Schumacher was involved in a controversy that arose from his will-to-win mentality.

1997: Schumacher and Villeneuve compete for the title

In 1997, Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve competed for the title, with Villeneuve leading early in the season. Schumacher won the Monaco Grand Prix and entered the season's finale with a one-point advantage.

1997: Schumacher lures Benetton employees to Ferrari

In 1997, Michael Schumacher lured Benetton employees Rory Byrne and Ross Brawn to Ferrari.

1997: Schumacher disqualified from the Drivers' Championship

In 1997, Michael Schumacher was disqualified from the entire Drivers' Championship after a controversial incident with Villeneuve at the European Grand Prix. Schumacher turned in on Villeneuve, causing him to retire from the race. Villeneuve went on to win the championship. Schumacher's actions were widely condemned.

1997: Involved in title battles, disqualified for collision

In 1997, Michael Schumacher was involved in title battles but was disqualified for a collision with Jacques Villeneuve.

1997: Narrowly Missed World Championship in 1997

In 1997, Schumacher narrowly missed winning the World Championship, despite arguably driving an inferior car.

1997: Birth of daughter Gina-Maria in 1997

In 1997, Schumacher's daughter, Gina-Maria, was born, adding to his personal life milestones.

1997: Participation in FIA European road safety campaign in 1997

Since his participation in an FIA European road safety campaign, as part of his punishment after the collision at the 1997 European Grand Prix, Schumacher continued to support other campaigns.

1997: Ralf Schumacher Competed in Formula One

Starting from 1997, Schumacher's younger brother Ralf competed in Formula One.

1998: Winning streak ended

From the 1992 Portuguese Grand Prix to the 1998 Monaco Grand Prix, Schumacher consistently outperformed his teammate when both cars finished. In 1992 Schumacher beat his teammate through the full season, and Martin Brundle was fired as a result.

1998: Runner-up to Mika Häkkinen

In 1998, Michael Schumacher finished as runner-up to Mika Häkkinen in the championship.

1998: Hakkinen becomes Schumacher's title rival

In 1998, Mika Häkkinen became Schumacher's main title rival, winning the first two races of the season. Schumacher won the Argentine Grand Prix and had six victories and five other podium finishes during the season.

1998: Narrowly Missed World Championship in 1998

In 1998, Schumacher narrowly missed winning the World Championship, despite arguably driving an inferior car.

1998: Controversies and Championship Loss

The 1998 season was marked by two controversies. One at the British Grand Prix, and another at the Belgian Grand Prix where Schumacher collided with Coulthard. Despite these events, Häkkinen ultimately won the Drivers' Championship.

1999: Start of Ferrari's Dominance

From 1999 to 2004, Schumacher's Ferrari dominated Formula 1, this would later be superseded by Mercedes' run from 2014 to 2021.

1999: Highest paid athlete

In 1999, Forbes listed Schumacher as the highest paid athlete in the world.

1999: Broke leg during championship

In 1999, Michael Schumacher broke his leg following a brake failure while second in the championship.

1999: Schumacher's injury and Ferrari's Constructors' Championship

In 1999, Michael Schumacher's efforts helped Ferrari win the Constructors' Championship, their first since 1983. However, he suffered a broken leg at the British Grand Prix and missed several races.

1999: World Championship runner-up due to leg injury

In 1999, Schumacher missed six races after a leg injury, resulting in Irvine becoming the World Championship runner-up.

1999: Birth of son Mick in 1999

In 1999, Schumacher's son, Mick, was born, expanding his family.

2000: Five Drivers' Championships

Between 2000 and 2004, Schumacher achieved five Drivers' Championships, 48 wins, and almost all Formula One records.

2000: Helmet color change in 2000 Monaco Grand Prix

From the 2000 Monaco Grand Prix, Schumacher changed the upper blue color and some of the white areas to red to differentiate his helmet colors from his new teammate Barrichello.

2000: Highest paid athlete

In 2000, Forbes listed Schumacher as the highest paid athlete in the world.

2000: First Title with Ferrari

In 2000, Michael Schumacher won his first title with Ferrari, which was their first in 21 years.

2000: Narrowly Missed World Championship in 2000

In 2000, Schumacher narrowly missed winning the World Championship, despite arguably driving an inferior car.

2000: Engine Failure at Japanese Grand Prix

In 2006, during the Japanese Grand Prix, Michael Schumacher faced an engine failure for the first time since the French Grand Prix in 2000, ending a 58-race sequence without mechanical issues, which led to Alonso's victory.

2001: Records

At the end of 2006, Schumacher's 91 wins were 40 more than his nearest rival Prost. Schumacher held at least 31 records, including consecutive podium finishes (19, 2001–2002), consecutive race finishes (24, 2001–2003).

2001: Fourth Drivers' Title

In 2001, Michael Schumacher claimed his fourth Drivers' title. He secured a record-tying nine wins and clinched the World Championship with four races remaining. Schumacher concluded the championship with 123 points, 58 ahead of Coulthard, the runner-up. Notable moments included winning the Spanish Grand Prix after Häkkinen's car malfunctioned, finishing second to his brother Ralf at the Canadian Grand Prix (the first 1–2 finish by brothers in Formula One), and securing his 52nd career win at the Belgian Grand Prix in 2001.

2001: Defended Title with Ferrari

In 2001, Michael Schumacher successfully defended his title with Ferrari.

2001: Domination in the 2001 World Championship

Schumacher dominated the 2001 World Championship, reinforcing his reputation as a top driver.

2002: Records

At the end of 2006, Schumacher's 91 wins were 40 more than his nearest rival Prost. Schumacher held at least 31 records, including podium finishes in a season (17, 2002), championship won with most races left (6, 2002).

2002: Controversy at the Austrian Grand Prix

During the 2002 season, the Austrian Grand Prix was mired in controversy as Barrichello, who was leading, slowed down in the final meters to allow Schumacher to win under team orders. This action, although not violating any specific sporting or technical rules, sparked outrage among fans and was viewed as unsportsmanlike. The incident occurred during only the sixth race of the season, prompting arguments that Schumacher did not require an engineered win, particularly since he had already secured four of the previous five Grand Prix victories in 2002.

2002: Donated to European floods in 2002

For the 2002 European floods, Schumacher donated €1 million to help the victims.

2002: Equalled Record Fifth Title

In 2002, Michael Schumacher claimed a record-equalling fifth title with a perfect podium rate.

2002: Appointed UNESCO Champion for Sport

In 2002, Michael Schumacher was appointed a UNESCO Champion for Sport, recognizing his involvement in humanitarian projects and charitable donations.

2002: 11 Wins and Podium Finish

In 2002, Schumacher broke his own record, shared with Mansell, of nine race wins in a season, by winning 11 times and finishing every race on the podium.

2002: Fifth World Championship

In 2002, Schumacher secured his Drivers' Championship, matching Juan Manuel Fangio's record of five World Championships. Ferrari dominated, winning 15 of 17 races, with Schumacher clinching the title with six races left. He surpassed his own record by winning 11 times, finishing every race on the podium. He ended the season with 144 points, a record 67 points ahead of Barrichello. This pair finished nine of the 17 races in the first two places in 2002.

2002: Domination in the 2002 World Championship

Schumacher dominated the 2002 World Championship, with Barrichello as the runner-up that year.

2003: Records

At the end of 2006, Schumacher's 91 wins were 40 more than his nearest rival Prost. Schumacher held at least 31 records, including consecutive race finishes (24, 2001–2003).

2003: Schumacher's Wet Race Record

In 2003, Christopher Hilton observed that Schumacher's performance in wet races highlighted his car control and sensitivity, noting his impressive record of winning 17 of 30 wet races.

2003: Deutsche Welle on Schumacher's Talent and Leadership

In 2003, Deutsche Welle highlighted Michael Schumacher's "natural talent" for racing and his "discipline and leadership" qualities, acknowledging his impact on the sport.

2003: Analysis of Schumacher's Driving Style

In 2003, F1 Racing analyzed Schumacher's driving style using telemetry data, revealing his sensitivity on the accelerator and brakes, often using both pedals simultaneously to stabilize his car. This was different than his Ferrari teammate.

2003: Sixth World Title

In 2003, Michael Schumacher claimed his unprecedented sixth title, holding off Kimi Räikkönen and Juan Pablo Montoya.

2003: Sixth Drivers' Championship

Michael Schumacher secured his sixth Drivers' Championship in 2003, surpassing Fangio's 46-year record, amidst fierce competition. The FIA implemented new regulations and a points system to enhance competition. Schumacher faced challenges early in the season, falling behind Räikkönen by 16 points. Despite the passing of his mother, Elisabeth, he won the San Marino Grand Prix in 2003.

2003: Won competitive 2003 World Championship

Schumacher won the competitive 2003 World Championship, showcasing his ability to win even with a less dominant car.

August 2004: Ferrari's Sixth Consecutive Constructors' Championship

In August 2004, Schumacher's victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix played a crucial role in securing Ferrari's sixth consecutive Constructors' Championship. This achievement highlighted Ferrari's dominance during that period.

2004: Records

At the end of 2006, Schumacher's 91 wins were 40 more than his nearest rival Prost. Schumacher held at least 31 records, including consecutive wins (7, 2004).

2004: End of Ferrari's Dominance

From 1999 to 2004, Schumacher's Ferrari dominated Formula 1, this would later be superseded by Mercedes' run from 2014 to 2021.

2004: Seventh World Title

In 2004, Michael Schumacher won his seventh title, securing 13 victories out of 18 Grands Prix.

2004: Schumacher: The Ultimate Driving Machine

In 2004, Nick Schulz of Slate described Schumacher as "the ultimate driving machine," highlighting his dominance and the impact he had on Formula One by setting new benchmarks for fitness and technology.

2004: Public test of carbon fiber helmet

In 2004, a prototype of the lightweight carbon fiber reinforced polymer helmet, developed with Schuberth, was publicly tested by being driven over by a tank; it survived intact.

2004: Domination in the 2004 World Championship

Schumacher dominated the 2004 World Championship, with Barrichello as the runner-up that year.

2004: Donated to Indian Ocean earthquake in 2004

Schumacher donated $10 million for aid after the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, which surpassed that of any other sports person.

2005: Identified as world's first billionaire athlete and ranked among most powerful celebrities

In 2005, EuroBusiness identified Schumacher as the world's first billionaire athlete, and Forbes ranked him 17th in its "The World's Most Powerful Celebrities" list.

2005: Finished third in Championship

In 2005, Michael Schumacher finished third in the championship.

2005: Meeting with John Paul II in 2005

In 2005, Schumacher, Barrichello, and other Ferrari employees met John Paul II and gave him a miniature replica of the Ferrari F2004.

2005: San Marino Grand Prix reversal

In 2006 his pole position at San Marino Grand Prix was his 66th, breaking Senna's 12-year-old record, which was described as perhaps the greatest record that stood in the sport, and was a reversal of the 2005 race.

2005: Rule Changes and Tyre Issues

The 2005 season saw rule changes requiring tyres to last an entire race, which favored teams using Michelins. Schumacher's sole win in 2005 occurred at the United States Grand Prix after Michelin tyres were found to have safety issues, leading to most teams dropping out.

2006: Last Season with Ferrari

2006 marked Michael Schumacher's final season with Ferrari. After three races, he trailed Alonso by 17 points but subsequently won the next two races. He was stripped of pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix and started at the back of the grid due to blocking the circuit during qualifying. Before the Turkish Grand Prix, Renault's mass damper was banned in 2006.

2006: Turning the struggling Ferrari Team

At the end of 2006, Schumacher's 91 wins were 40 more than his nearest rival Prost. Schumacher held at least 31 records, including for most championship titles (7), consecutive titles (5), race victories (91).

2006: First retirement in 2006

By the time of his first retirement in 2006, Schumacher was widely considered among the greatest Formula One drivers.

2006: Controversy in the 2006 Monaco qualifying

During the 2006 Monaco qualifying, Schumacher was involved in a controversy that arose from his will-to-win mentality.

2006: All-red helmet worn for the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix

For the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix, Schumacher wore an all-red helmet bearing the names of his 91 Grand Prix victories.

2006: Donated to various charities from 2002 to 2006

From 2002 to 2006, Schumacher donated at least $50 million to various charities, showcasing his philanthropic efforts.

2006: Last Time Leading a Race

In 2006 was the last time Schumacher lead a race until the Japanese Grand Prix in 2011.

2006: Retirement Announcement

In 2006, Michael Schumacher narrowly finished runner-up to Fernando Alonso and announced his retirement from Formula One.

2006: First Retirement from Formula One

In 2006, Michael Schumacher retired from Formula One, after having competed since 1991.

2006: Voiced a Ferrari F430 in the Disney/Pixar film Cars

In 2006, Schumacher voiced a Ferrari F430 in the Disney/Pixar film Cars, and cameoed as a chariot driver in the French film Asterix at the Olympic Games.

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2006: Most Popular Driver

In 2006, a FIA survey revealed Schumacher was voted the most popular driver of the season among Formula One fans.

2007: End of Ralf Schumacher Formula One career

At the end of 2007, Schumacher's younger brother Ralf ended his Formula One career.

2007: Adviser and Assistant

During the 2007 season, Michael Schumacher served as Ferrari's adviser and Jean Todt's assistant. He also supported Ferrari's development program, focusing on testing electronics and tyres for the 2008 season.

2007: Moved to a newly built mansion near Gland, Switzerland, in 2007

The Schumacher family moved to a newly built mansion near Gland, Switzerland, in 2007.

2008: Motorcycle Racing in IDM Superbike Series

In 2008, Michael Schumacher participated in motorcycle racing in the IDM Superbike series. He finished third at a Superbike cup race at the Pannónia-Ring on a Honda CBR1000RR.

2008: Declined Offer from Sammarinese football club SS Murata in 2008

In 2008, Schumacher declined an offer from Sammarinese football club SS Murata to join their squad for their upcoming UEFA Champions League qualifying matches.

2008: Donated to Clinton Foundation in 2008

In 2008, Schumacher donated between $5 million and $10 million to the Clinton Foundation, continuing his support for charitable causes.

2008: Advertising campaign by Bacardi in 2008

In 2008, Schumacher was the figurehead of an advertising campaign by Bacardi to raise awareness about responsible drinking.

July 2009: Aborted F1 Return Due to Injury

In July 2009, Michael Schumacher was set to replace the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari for the European Grand Prix. After testing a modified Ferrari F2007, Schumacher had to call off his return due to a neck injury sustained in a motorcycle accident. This was described by Schumacher as his "toughest moment".

December 2009: Schumacher Announces F1 Return with Mercedes

In December 2009, Michael Schumacher announced his return to Formula One for the 2010 season, joining Nico Rosberg at the new Mercedes GP team. He cited renewed interest and the opportunity to drive for Mercedes and work with Ross Brawn as key factors in his decision.

2009: Schumacher reflects on his career

In 2009, Michael Schumacher stated that if he could have his career over again, he would "do some things differently", citing Jerez 1997 as something that he would have changed.

2009: Appearance on Top Gear as the Stig in 2009

In 2009, Schumacher appeared on the BBC motoring programme Top Gear as the Stig.

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2009: Eichenberger and Stadelmann mathematical models.

Objective mathematical models, such as Eichenberger and Stadelmann (2009, 3rd), put Schumacher consistently among the top five greatest Formula One drivers ever.

2009: Motorcycle Accident and Impact on Comeback

The 2009 motorcycle accident that Schumacher had may have had an impact on his form after coming out of retirement. The accident caused a neck injury.

2010: Schumacher at Mercedes

Between 2010 and 2012, Schumacher was at Mercedes with Vowles, and he was credited with bringing the team together.

2010: Schumacher's First Race After Return

In 2010, Michael Schumacher finished sixth at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking his first race after 1,239 days since his previous Formula One appearance. He consistently finished behind teammate Rosberg in the initial races.

2010: Return to Formula One

In 2010, Michael Schumacher returned to Formula One racing, having initially retired in 2006.

2010: Return to Formula One with Mercedes

In 2010, Michael Schumacher returned to Formula One with Mercedes, marking the team's return as a constructor since 1955. He joined team principal Ross Brawn, aiming to replicate their past success.

2010: Personal fortune estimated at £515 million

In 2010, Schumacher's personal fortune was estimated at £515 million.

2011: Team orders ban lifted

After the end of the 2002 season, the FIA banned "team orders which interfere with the race result"; the ban was lifted for the 2011 season because the ruling was difficult to enforce.

2011: Special gold-leafed helmet for the 2011 Belgian Grand Prix

For the 2011 Belgian Grand Prix, which marked the 20th anniversary of his Formula One debut and his seven Drivers' titles, Schumacher wore a special gold-leafed helmet.

2011: Scoring Points and Leading Races

In 2011, Schumacher scored his first points at the Malaysian Grand Prix. At the Canadian Grand Prix, he finished fourth after running as high as second. The Japanese Grand Prix marked the first time since 2006 that he had led a race, becoming the oldest driver to do so since Jack Brabham in 1970.

October 2012: Schumacher Announces Second Retirement

In October 2012, Michael Schumacher announced his second retirement from Formula One, citing a lack of desire to continue dealing with the sport. He was replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the 2013 season.

2012: Final retirement in 2012

By the time of his final retirement in 2012, Schumacher was widely considered among the greatest Formula One drivers.

2012: Schumacher's Retirement and Team Contribution

Despite retiring in 2012, Schumacher was credited with contributing significantly to the development and future success of Mercedes. His work ethic and dedication were noted by team principal James Vowles in 2023.

2012: Platinum-leafed helmet for the 2012 Belgian Grand Prix

For his 300th Grand Prix appearance, the 2012 Belgian Grand Prix, Schumacher wore a platinum-leafed helmet with a message of the achievement.

2012: Final Podium

In 2012, Michael Schumacher claimed his final podium at the European Grand Prix.

2012: Second Retirement from Formula One

In 2012, Michael Schumacher retired for the second and final time from Formula One racing, after returning in 2010.

2012: Qualifying and Race Results in 2012

In 2012, Michael Schumacher, partnered by Nico Rosberg at Mercedes, qualified fourth at the Australian Grand Prix, his best since his return. He retired from that race and scored a point at the Malaysian Grand Prix. At the Chinese Grand Prix, he retired due to a loose wheel.

December 2013: Skiing Accident and Brain Injury

In December 2013, Michael Schumacher suffered a traumatic brain injury in a skiing accident and was placed in an induced coma for six months.

December 2013: Skiing accident in December 2013

On 29 December 2013, Schumacher was skiing with his son Mick in the French Alps when he fell and hit his head on a rock, sustaining a serious head injury despite wearing a ski helmet.

2013: Skiing accident in 2013

Before his skiing accident in 2013, Schumacher's main hobbies included horse riding, motorcycle racing, sky diving, and playing football.

2013: Ski Injury and Potential Eighth Championship

Brawn suggested that had Schumacher not retired in 2012 and not suffered a ski injury in 2013, he could have contended for an eighth World Championship in 2014.

2013: Replaced by Hamilton at Mercedes

For the 2013 season, Lewis Hamilton replaced Michael Schumacher at Mercedes, following Schumacher's second retirement announcement in October 2012.

2013: Donated to European floods in 2013

Years after his initial donation, Schumacher donated €500,000 after the 2013 European floods.

April 2014: Showing moments of consciousness in early April 2014

In early April 2014, Schumacher was showing moments of consciousness as he was gradually withdrawn from the medically induced coma.

June 2014: Left Grenoble Hospital for further rehabilitation in June 2014

In June 2014, Schumacher left Grenoble Hospital for further rehabilitation at the Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland.

September 2014: Relocated to receive private treatment

In September 2014, Michael Schumacher was relocated to his home to receive private treatment after undergoing rehabilitation in Lausanne following a skiing accident in December 2013.

September 2014: Brought home for further rehabilitation in September 2014

In September 2014, Schumacher was brought home for further rehabilitation.

November 2014: Reports of paralysis and memory problems in November 2014

In November 2014, it was reported that Schumacher was "paralysed and in a wheelchair", and that he "cannot speak and has memory problems".

2014: Mercedes' Dominance Begins

From 2014, Mercedes began an unprecedented run, winning eight Constructors' Championships under Hamilton, Rosberg, and Bottas. This success was attributed in part to Schumacher's earlier contributions to the team between 2010 and 2012.

2014: original F1metrics mathematical models.

Objective mathematical models, such as original F1metrics (2014, 4th), put Schumacher consistently among the top five greatest Formula One drivers ever.

May 2015: Condition slowly improving in May 2015

In May 2015, Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm stated that his condition was slowly improving "considering the severeness of the injury he had".

2015: Bell et al. mathematical models.

Objective mathematical models, such as Bell et al. (2015, 3rd), put Schumacher consistently among the top five greatest Formula One drivers ever.

2016: Teammate Rosberg becomes World Champion

In 2016, Schumacher was outperformed by his teammate Rosberg, who went on to become the World Champion.

2017: Athlete with fifth highest career earnings

In 2017, Forbes designated Schumacher as the athlete with the fifth highest career earnings of all-time.

2018: Georg Gänswein visited Schumacher in mid-2018

Archbishop Georg Gänswein visited Schumacher in mid-2018.

2018: FiveThirtyEight mathematical models.

Objective mathematical models, such as FiveThirtyEight (2018, 2nd), put Schumacher consistently among the top five greatest Formula One drivers ever.

2019: updated F1metrics mathematical models.

Objective mathematical models, such as updated F1metrics (2019, 1st), put Schumacher consistently among the top five greatest Formula One drivers ever.

2020: Hamilton Surpasses Schumacher's Wins

Before 2020, Michael Schumacher's 91 wins were one fewer of Senna and Prost's combined total. But in 2020 Hamilton surpassed that record.

2020: Lewis Hamilton equals Schumacher's championship record

In 2020, Lewis Hamilton matched Michael Schumacher's record of seven Formula One World Drivers' Championship titles.

2020: Most Influential Person in Formula One History in 2020

In 2020, Schumacher was voted the most influential person in Formula One history, recognizing his profound effect on motorsport.

2021: End of Mercedes' Dominance

From 2014 to 2021, Mercedes won a record-breaking eight Constructors' Championships under drivers Hamilton, Rosberg, and Valtteri Bottas, setting a new benchmark in Formula One.

2021: Mick Schumacher Formula One debut

In the 2021 season, Mick became the third Schumacher to race in Formula One, making his debut with Haas.

2021: Release of Netflix documentary film Schumacher in 2021

Schumacher is the subject of the 2021 Netflix documentary film Schumacher.

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2023: Fisichella on Schumacher's Greatness

In 2023, Fisichella remarked that Schumacher "did not even seem to have sweated" during races, affirming that Schumacher is the greatest Formula One driver and "rewrote the history of Formula One".

2023: Vowles on Schumacher's Influence at Mercedes

In 2023, Williams team principal James Vowles, reflecting on Schumacher's time at Mercedes between 2010 and 2012, emphasized Schumacher's role in bringing the team together and influencing drivers like Rosberg and Hamilton.