Michael Schumacher and Ferrari given extraordinary SNUB as...

Michael Schumacher and Ferrari given extraordinary SNUB as…read more

As Formula marks its 75th anniversary, fans around the world are reflecting on the incredible transformation the sport has undergone since its first official race at Silverstone in 1950. From evolving technology and safety standards to iconic drivers and unforgettable rivalries, F1’s history is nothing short of extraordinary. However, while the milestone is being acknowledged through a special 24-hour live stream featuring seven full races, the chosen content has sparked criticism due to what many are calling a glaring omission.

The streaming event is meant to commemorate 75 years of F1 with full race replays, yet it covers only a narrow timeframe—just 17 seasons. The selection begins with the 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix, where Lewis Hamilton clinched his first world title in dramatic fashion, and ends with the 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Notably absent are any races from before the mid-2000s, particularly those involving legendary drivers like Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, and most controversially, Michael Schumacher during his time at Ferrari.

For many fans and experts, the exclusion of Schumacher’s Ferrari era is seen as a major oversight. His dominance in the early 2000s—where he won five consecutive world titles with Ferrari—is a defining chapter in F1 history. From his thrilling duel with Mika Hakkinen at Spa in 2000 to the strategic brilliance of the four-stop win at the 2004 French Grand Prix, Schumacher’s performances helped elevate Ferrari to legendary status in motorsport.

This snub has been compared to a football tribute that excludes Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time top scorer. It’s a baffling decision given Schumacher’s status as a seven-time world champion and one of the most successful and influential drivers in F1’s long history.

Admittedly, there are challenges in showcasing older races. Footage prior to the 1980s is limited, and even into the early ’90s, full race broadcasts were not always available or under centralized management. Additionally, the prevalence of tobacco sponsorship during Schumacher’s era could present complications for public broadcasting. Still, F1 has not shied away from featuring similar content on its YouTube channel, where many races from the ’90s and 2000s are available, despite heavy tobacco branding.

Given that, it feels like a missed opportunity not to include some of Schumacher’s iconic Ferrari moments. His wet-weather masterclass at the 1996 Spanish Grand Prix or his first Monza win for Ferrari that same year could have provided valuable insights into his skill and determination. These races would also offer newer fans a deeper understanding of the sport’s legacy and evolution.

Ultimately, while F1’s gesture to stream historic races is appreciated, the limited and modern-heavy selection paints an incomplete picture of the sport’s rich tapestry. In overlooking key figures like Schumacher and iconic Ferrari triumphs, the celebration falls short of fully honoring 75 years of Formula 1 greatness.