Ferrari star reveals TEAM ORDERS to help F1 legend’s…. Read more
Barrichello, who partnered with Schumacher from 2000 to 2005, recalled how Ferrari’s focus was heavily on supporting Schumacher’s title bids, a strategy that involved subtle but clear instructions for Barrichello to prioritize his teammate’s success.
Barrichello, who played a vital role in Ferrari’s dominance during that era, explained that the team provided him with a competitive car, which he was grateful for, but his primary role often involved supporting Schumacher in races. One notable instance Barrichello described was during the opening race of the season in Australia, where he was running in second place. Barrichello recalled how he received instructions over the radio to reduce his speed, which was designed to help Schumacher, who was ahead of him in the race. Barrichello was prepared for such situations, acknowledging that the pressure of driving for Ferrari was nothing compared to the personal struggles he faced earlier in life, particularly growing up in difficult financial circumstances.
This revelation highlights the often controversial use of team orders in Formula 1, where drivers are sometimes asked to sacrifice personal race results for the benefit of their teammates or the team’s championship ambitions. Barrichello’s comments shed light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that helped Schumacher secure five of his seven world championships with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in 2025 after leaving Mercedes, and he will face competition from his younger teammate, Charles Leclerc. Hamilton, who is tied with Schumacher for seven world titles, will be aiming to secure a record-breaking eighth title at Ferrari. If Hamilton manages to beat Leclerc and win another championship, he will surpass Schumacher, adding another layer of historical significance to his career.
The dynamic between Hamilton and Leclerc could mirror some of the competitive elements that Barrichello and Schumacher experienced, with team orders potentially playing a role in shaping Ferrari’s approach to their drivers’ championship bids. However, with the rising influence of modern F1 regulations and public scrutiny, it remains to be seen how Ferrari will manage their two star drivers moving forward.
