Michael Schumacher or Lewis Hamilton: Former team principal gives his verdict on who is Formula 1’s ultimate GOAT

Die-hard Formula 1 fans can’t help but compare Lewis Hamilton and debate who among them is the ultimate GOAT (Greatest of All Time) of motorsport.

Ross Brawn, known for being the mastermind behind Schumacher’s seven world titles and for also collaborating with Hamilton, gave his answer. When asked about both, he said Schumacher was above all others.

“Hamilton had the same commitment, talent, and drive as Michael, but with a different approach. Helping him win each of his seven world titles was incredible for me. But nothing is beyond Michael,” Ross Brawn told Auto Hebdo in an interview earlier this year.

Explaining why Schumacher is the best F1 driver, Brawn said: “Talent is everything, and Michael’s was immense. F1 has seen many talented drivers unable to fully exploit it. Michael knew how. He had exceptional fitness, incredible focus, and unrivaled commitment. He possessed all the required qualities and the intelligence to master every stage of his career.”

This is what you look like when a championship is on the line again 💪

With his victory at the 2006 Chinese GP, Michael was back in the championship fight – little did he know that an engine failure in the following race would destroy those hopes.

It was his last victory  in @F1

📷AFP pic.twitter.com/uWOqrsEBNj

— Michael Schumacher (@schumacher) 23 mars 2025 

Ross Brawn has been team principal at Benetton, Ferrari, and Mercedes and played a pivotal role in Schumacher’s victories with Benetton and then Ferrari. Brawn was team principal at Mercedes when Hamilton joined the team, but later handed over to Toto Wolff.

Schumacher has won seven world championships, a record now equaled by Lewis Hamilton, who is aiming to break the record this season with Ferrari. Michael Schumacher vs. Lewis Hamilton Numerically, Lewis Hamilton has more pole positions, podiums, and points in fewer races. However, Schumacher has more wins each year, more fastest lap times, more consecutive wins, and more consecutive podiums.

Schumacher retired in 2006, but made a brief return to Mercedes between 2010 and 2012. His career came to an unexpected end after a tragic skiing accident that left him bedridden for years. He currently leads a “different” life, as his wife, who has been caring for him ever since, describes him.

Hamilton made his Formula 1 debut in 2007 with McLaren, then joined Mercedes in 2013, where he enjoyed resounding success. Despite winning seven world titles, he joined Ferrari for the 2025 season and is now focused on returning to form to secure his eighth championship victory, with the aim of breaking Schumacher’s record. He will compete in the Japanese Grand Prix, which begins at the Suzuka circuit on April 4.