How Schumacher changed F1 forever

Michael Schumacher's "attention to detail and technical knowledge" altered the face of Formula 1 forever, according to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff. Schumacher ended his career at the Silver Arrows, having previously dominated the sport during a decade with Ferrari.

Schumacher won seven world titles and 91 grands prix – records that stand to this day – in his career and remains statistically the greatest driver in F1 history.

Neither Schumacher's dedication to physical fitness and interest in the mechanical side of F1 were common when he debuted, although both have since become key factors for all drivers.

With the F1 world remembering Schumacher's great achievements on his 50th birthday, Wolff recounted the ways in which the sport has been moulded by the German icon.

50 years ago, a star was born. A star who shaped and changed @F1 forever. Who broke records, redefined excellence and helped lay the foundations for our future success.

We’d like to send our very best wishes to Michael @Schumacher on his 50th birthday. #KeepFighting #Michael50 pic.twitter.com/247WKprWCD — Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) January 3, 2019

"Michael has had a tremendous impact on Formula 1," Wolff said in a Mercedes release celebrating Schumacher's birthday.

"Not only did he set an incredible record - a record that is yet to be beaten - but he also shaped and changed the sport forever.

As a driver, Michael took Formula 1 to a whole new level with his attention to detail and his technical knowledge.

"He did everything with great determination, from his engineering debriefs to his physical training, and was always searching for new ways to improve his on-track performance."

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