Two-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, who will become the youngest triple
champion in history if he can survive the twin threats posed by the rain and Ferrari’s
Fernando Alonso this weekend, did his best.
Vettel recalled that Schumacher had been his “childhood hero” who had aided
his rise through the ranks, which began at Schumacher’s local karting track
in Kerpen.
“He was a true inspiration back then,” Vettel said. “He took care of the
championship, gave out all the trophies. I now obviously understand the busy
schedule he had and taking that extra time for us, the kids racing, was
something very special.
“When I met him the first time I didn’t know what to say. I didn’t want to say
anything stupid.
“Today it is different. It doesn’t feel like talking to my childhood
hero, it is like talking to Michael. I see the person, not what he has
achieved.
“Racing with him the last couple of years – not as close as with Fernando
– but that image was very far away when I was a kid.”
He said it had been a “very special last couple of years and it is very
special the relationship we share”.
It was a nice remark, but it felt as if he had said it before. He probably
had.
Schumacher’s second retirement has been a rather slow, painful process, much
like his second career in the sport.
In the first he amassed seven world drivers’ titles and 91 race victories in a
period of sustained dominance the like of which we will probably never again
witness.
The second has seen him garner one pole and one podium place from three
seasons in which he has been comprehensively outscored by his Mercedes
team-mate Nico Rosberg.
There was less controversy this time around, too. Schumacher showed a much
more human side to his character in his second incarnation. But it made for
less compelling viewing.
At 43, he is ready to settle down to a quieter life with his wife, Corinna,
and their two children. He says he plans to spend more time on his ranches
in Switzerland and Texas, perhaps even compete in Western riding.
There is just one race left to go before he can ride off into the sunset.
“I will take the best out of it and enjoy it as much as I can,” he said.