Before we dive in to this detailed report, I would like to thank all the people who have commented and rated my previous articles (focusing on Great Britain and Brazil) in this series.
I was going to extend the series to five parts, yet after careful thought I have decided not to. I don't want to end up like a Rubens Barrichello; holding on when it is best to let go!
In this installment, we will take a look at German constructors and engine suppliers as well as drivers, history and circuits.
History
Germany have been involved in Formula One since the early days. With this in mind, it is a surprising fact that Germany have only ever produced one Formula One world champion, although there have been many successful German constructors.
There has been a German Grand Prix held since 1926 and a Formula One event has been held since 1951. The German Grand Prix has produced many memorable races, and the 2008 event certainly on the list.
The German people enjoy Formula One (much more now after Michael Schumacher's dominance) and there is a lot of pressure on all German drivers to deliver good results and make the country proud.
Drivers
I will only mention one driver in this installment. Although there have been many German F1 drivers, none have been as successful as Michael Schumacher.
There is only one person to begin with when it comes to German F1 drivers: Michael Schumacher.
The seven-time world champion is the first and only German world champion.
Did you know that Michael Schumacher was voted the most popular F1 driver in a survey by the FIA in 2006?
Schumacher was recognised as a talented driver in his first full season in Formula One. Driving with the Benetton team, Schumacher scored eight podiums and one win in his first season. He finished third in the championship.
His first championship came in 1994 when he dominated the season, despite being disqualified from two races and excluded from two others.
Schumacher moved to Ferrari in 1996 and won his first (of five) championships with them in 2000.
Schumacher wasn't off the podium in 2002 and won the title with an amazing six rounds to spare!
Did you know that Michael Schumacher finished 67 points ahead of the runner up in the 2002 F1 championship?
Schumacher won his final championship in 2004 and dominated the season. Had he won in Monte Carlo, Schumacher would have won 13 consecutive Grand Prix.
In 2005, Schumacher conceded his world title to Fernando Alonso, after the 2005 Ferrari couldn't keep up with the McLaren and Renault of Raikkonen and Alonso.
In 2006, Michael retired from the sport as the [statistically] best driver ever.
Did you know that Michael Schumacher currently holds a massive 31 records in Formula One? These include most wins, most championships, and most pole positions.
Constructors/Engine Suppliers
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