A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
Michael Schumacher has been out of the public life since December 2013. However 12 years on, the German F1 champion is often remembered. The latest to do so, is former Ferrari colleague, current Sauber COO and CTO, Mattia Binotto.
On 29 December, 2013, Schumacher vanished from the public eye after a severe skiing accident, the consequences of which, to this day, he still has to live with.
The 7-time Formula One world champion currently resides in an Island off the shore of Mallorca, Spain, where his family's efforts, spearheaded by dutiful wife, Corinna Schumacher, are devoted to the F1 legend's care.
'Michael Schumacher, the best ever'
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Binotto currently finds himself leading Audi's F1 project which is set to premiere on track next season when Sauber completes the transformation into the German manufacturer's full works team.
Speaking to Sport Bild, however, the Italian can't help but reflect on the German legend and the time they spent together at Ferrari.
"Michael was exceptional. He's the best driver I've ever worked with," Binotto revealed to the German journal.
But it was not only his remarkable driving skills that set Schumacher apart. "An absolutely exceptional driver, no question about it - but he was best off the car. He led the way with his mentality, was a real leader."
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Binotto admits to 'needing' Schumacher again
One of the things Schumacher is known for, beside his driving, is also his fierce mentality in his relentless pursuit of victories and championships.
Binotto discloses such mindset is exactly what Audi needs to start their F1 path off on the right foot.
"His way of working with the team in the garage, setting ambitious goals and never giving up until he has achieved them was unique."
"It was in his DNA. This is exactly the mentality we need to be successful," Binotto concluded.
"It was in his DNA. This is exactly the mentality we need to be successful," Binotto concluded.
Earlier today, Audi announced a new deal with a major sponsor as the German team looks ahead to the 2026 Formula One season.
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