Netflix film about F1 legend Schumacher set for September release

‘SCHUMACHER’ will explore the German’s meteoritic rise to becoming a seven-time world champion, including rare interviews and previously undisclosed archival footage.

The film will feature contributions from his wife Corinna, his children Gina and Mick, his brother Ralf, and insights from many of Schumacher’s former F1 team bosses and close rivals, including Damon Hill, Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard.

It is the first film to have been produced with the full support of the Schumacher family. It was originally intended for release two years ago but the COVID-19 pandemic meant the project was delayed.

“In his quest for perfection, he spared neither himself nor his team, driving them to the greatest successes,” Schumacher’s manager Sabine Kehm said.

"He is admired all over the world for his leadership qualities. He found the strength for this task and the balance to recharge at home, with his family, whom he loves idolatrously.

“In order to preserve his private sphere as a source of strength, he has always rigorously and consistently separated his private from his public life.

“This film tells of both worlds. It is his family's gift to their beloved husband and father.”

Vanessa Nocker, who produced and directed the film, explained that the involvement of Corinna had been integral.

“The greatest challenge for the directors was certainly to find the balance between independent reporting and consideration for the family,” Nocker said. “Corinna Schumacher herself was our greatest support in this.

“She herself wanted to make an authentic film, to show Michael as he is, with all his ups and downs, without any sugarcoating.

“She was great and brave enough to let us do what we wanted, and so we respected and kept her boundaries. A very inspiring, warm woman who made a lasting impression on all of us.”

Producer Benjamin Seikel added: “The documentary was a big challenge and needed a lot of time and sensitivity, considering the pressure that was put on the production from the outside. But thanks to a great team and a really great collaboration with the family, we didn't let ourselves get rattled.

“We're grateful that it's finally getting underway and excited about its global release on Netflix. The film was always intended to be an international documentary and we're confident it will be embraced as such.”

‘SCHUMACHER’ is to be released in the UK on September 15.