Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher are undeniably two of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, having achieved unattainable feats over their respective motorsport careers. While the record-equaling world champions majorly competed in two different eras, there was a juncture where the two astonishing careers coincided and the diabolical duo ended up racing each other on the track.
Indeed, their battles were short-lived, but the aggressive nature of Hamilton and Schumacher induced an element of excitement in the spectators. Therefore, let’s take a look at some of the most nerve-wracking duels between Hamilton and Schumacher that proved to be a spectacle. The third greatest battle unfolded at the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix.
Although this particular battle didn’t last for long, it was fierce enough to trigger a harsh radio message from the then-McLaren driver.
3. Lewis Hamilton & Michael Schumacher almost collide at the 2011 Monaco GP
The early 2010s witnessed Mercedes as more of an underwhelming racing outfit, and hence, hindered Schumacher from competing for podiums and race victories. However, in what was an odd circumstance, Schumacher found himself ahead of Hamilton. But, for how long?
The duo engaged in an engrossing battle, as Schumacher portrayed an impeccable level of defending against a much faster McLaren. However, midway through the race, Hamilton found a better exit out of the final corner and towed his way behind the Mercedes on the main straight before making a move around the inside of turn 1.
#F1:Michael Schumacher (Mercedes), Lewis Hamilton (McLaren) – 2011 Monaco GP [3543×2362] https://t.co/RKPiI8FbWt pic.twitter.com/onTne8ef9g
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Schumacher did try to cover him off, but, the McLaren was too fast for the German and hence, had to yield at the last moment. Despite successfully making the move, Hamilton said on the radio, “What a dirty driver!” While Schumacher eventually retired from the race, Hamilton went on to endure a series of controversial incidents and consequent repercussions, eventually finishing in P6.
2. Michael Schumacher attempts to fight Lewis Hamilton back in China
China has been off the racing calendar for a while now, but despite its absence, one can never forget the massive back straight that has proved to be a nightmare for slower cars. The 2010 Chinese Grand Prix projected a similar tale, as Hamilton found himself stuck behind Schumacher. With the rain falling, it was one of the trickiest conditions a driver could be in.
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On lap 16, Hamilton had the opportunity to blitz past Schumacher, but, of course, the German wasn’t going down without a fight. Halfway through the back straight, Hamilton overtook the Mercedes. But, not long after, Schumacher used the tow of Hamilton’s McLaren and regained his position heading into the penultimate hairpin corner.
Unfortunately, the damp conditions obstructed Schumacher from successfully completing the late-braking maneuver, and ended up running wide into the corner. Subsequently, this opened the door for Hamilton, which the Briton duly accepted.
1. Schumacher fends off Hamilton in a diabolical 2011 Monza GP duel
The best duel between Hamilton and Schumacher unfolded at the Monza GP as the straight-line speed of Mercedes and high downforce of McLaren left the two drivers on par. After losing the position to Schumacher on lap 1, Hamilton had the task of reclaiming the lost spot from the German.
The battle lasted for multiple laps and the defensive actions were harsh enough to receive warnings from the stewards. But, again, it was Hamilton who ultimately won the duel, thanks to the far more superior McLaren. Following the race, the then-McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh criticized Schumacher’s harsh defense.
2011 Monza GP 🏁
Michael Schumacher ⚔️ Lewis Hamilton #F1 pic.twitter.com/bNevHrR6PX
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“Pretty harsh,” he said according to Crash.Net. “I am not the least impartial but the fact is, I think he was warned twice by the stewards during the event so they presumably saw it was a bit tough. I think the one where he had Lewis on the grass was scary as hell.”
Overall, the rivalry was fun while it lasted. But, one can only imagine the level of intensity the duo could have delivered if they ended up in equal machinery.