The "founding father" of Schumacher was the key to the dominant performance in Formula One

On the sidelines of the 50th anniversary of the seventh world champion, Toto Wolf, the German Formula One driver, described Michael Schumacher as the "founding father" of the Silver Darts, who dominated almost a Formula 1 race at the same time. hybrid era.

Schumacher returned from retirement to join the Mercedes team in 2010, although he won just one crown for three seasons, but Wolff explained that the results of the German champion's contribution seemed obvious after Mercedes later.

"Michael is one of the founding fathers of our successes over the past five seasons," he said.

"There is no doubt that a pilot like him, with his vast experience, has contributed immensely to the development of our team."

"When he returned to Formula 1, he played a crucial role.He was one of the people who laid the foundation for our future success.

Wolf, who took charge of the Mercedes team for the 2013 season immediately after replacing Lewis Hamilton by Schumacher, talked about his first meeting with German in the plane the year. former.

He pointed out that Schumacher had challenged him in the game "backgammon" and that "had completely crushed him in the first two rounds".

We had a really good and honest discussion and, when the plane landed, I had the feeling of knowing it for a long time. "

Schumacher suffered a severe head injury as a result of a ski accident late 2013 and has since been subjected to intensive treatments.

The family of the German star has issued a statement this week on the occasion of its fiftieth anniversary.

"We would like to remember and celebrate his victories, record numbers and positive energy."

Please understand that we act in accordance with Michael's desire to preserve the confidentiality of certain sensitive topics such as his health, as he did before. "

"At the same time, we thank you very much for your friendship and wish you a happy new year 2019."