Michael Schumacher’s younger brother, Ralf Schumacher, has opened up about the challenges of being related to one of the greatest Formula 1 icons of all time. In an emotional admission, Ralf shared how the pressure and comparisons shaped his career and personal life while competing alongside his legendary sibling.
Michael, a seven-time F1 world champion, etched his name into the history books with unparalleled success. However, since his tragic skiing accident in 2013, little has been known about his condition. Speaking to The Times, Ralf offered insight into the unique dynamic of being both a brother and a rival to Michael during their time in Formula 1.
The Pressure of Being Michael’s Brother
Ralf, now 49, admitted that carrying the Schumacher name in the F1 paddock came with its own set of challenges. “People look at you and everything you do is not good enough,” he said, reflecting on the constant scrutiny he faced during his racing career.
Even within his own family, the pressure to succeed—and doubts about achieving it—were evident. Ralf revealed that their father, Rolf Schumacher, initially discouraged him from pursuing a career in motorsport.
“My family [is] not really into motorsport. My father doesn’t like that. He prefers fishing,” Ralf explained. “Even when Michael was so successful, my father always said to me: ‘Please, do something different.’
“He wanted me to be a chef, to have a proper job and not motor racing, because you cannot make money with it.
“Even when Michael was in Formula 1, my father said: ‘No, no, forget it. He was so lucky. One is amazing already, but two [sons] will never make it. So do something else.’”
A Career of His Own
Despite the challenges, Ralf carved out a respectable career in F1, securing 10 race wins while driving for teams like Jordan, Williams, and Toyota. Reflecting on his achievements, Ralf acknowledged that his perspective on success has evolved over time.
“I remember before I did my first year in Formula 1, I was already living in Monaco, and I met [the Austrian driver] Gerhard Berger with my brother on his boat in Monaco. He was talking about his career.
“I think he managed to win ten grands prix, and when I was young, I thought: ‘Oh God, this poor guy, you know, if I finish Formula 1 one day, I don’t want to end up like him with only ten victories.’
“And I didn’t even manage that, you know, so that’s life,” Ralf admitted.
Racing Against Michael
One of the most special aspects of Ralf’s career was the opportunity to compete against his brother on the track. Despite their fierce battles, Ralf emphasized that their relationship remained strong.
“[Racing against each other] was never an issue between the two of us,” he said. “Because what Michael did was amazing, and I was always so happy for him. But sometimes, to be able to beat him was also nice.”
Ralf also reminisced about their shared moments of triumph, particularly their joint podium finish at the 2001 Canadian Grand Prix.
“But after the races, we always celebrated together. And to be as brothers on the podium [in Canada in 2001] is something very special.
“We had a big party together that day. It was just an amazing feeling, for our parents also.”
