The public image of Michael Schumacher, long shielded by Jean Todt, reveals a more human and complex side. In the 'High Performance' podcast, the former Ferrari boss gave a candid account of two of the Kaiser's most controversial career episodes: Jerez 1997 and Monte Carlo 2006.
Analyzing the collision with Jacques Villeneuve in the 1997 season finale, Todt openly admitted the deliberate nature of the move. "He went to hit Jacques, I mean, intentionally," said Todt, though he ruled out any cold-blooded calculation on Schumacher's part, describing it more as an instinctive reaction dictated by the pressure of the moment. According to Todt, Schumacher tried to avoid it but did so incorrectly, calling the action an ugly, unnecessary move.
Even in the 2006 Monaco episode, when Michael parked his car to block Alonso's qualifying lap, Todt's words were clear. "Michael stopped on purpose," said Todt. But at the time, the penalty given to Schumacher cost the German dearly, significantly impacting the championship battle. The most touching aspect of Todt's account related to Schumacher's personality beneath the surface, away from the spotlight and competitive coldness. The Frenchman described Schumacher as a fragile yet restrained and generous personality.