In a touching reminiscence, former Top Gear producer Andy Wilman recounted a memorable encounter between Jeremy Clarkson and seven-time Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher in 1999. This moment unfolded during a filming for the BBC series, “The Science of Speed,” which examined the various elements of speed.
Behind the Scenes of the Interview
The filming took place in Maranello, Italy, where the crew sought to secure an exclusive interview with Schumacher. Wilman explained that they approached Schumacher’s manager, Sabine Kehm, who agreed to allocate a half-hour time slot after Schumacher’s testing session.
At the time, Schumacher was preparing for the season’s climax, specifically a race in Japan that marked a pivotal moment in his career. The filming logistics faced some challenges, including an unexpected fee imposed by the circuit due to the presence of an inexperienced driver, Kimi Räikkönen, who was also testing.
Securing the Exclusive Venue
- Wilman requested to close the bar at Schumacher’s hotel to ensure privacy for the interview.
- The hotel manager initially refused but quickly changed course upon realizing Schumacher’s involvement.
- Once the bar was cleared, the team set up for the interview, allowing them to film undisturbed.
During the conversation, Schumacher displayed his openness by discussing various topics, including his competition with Mika Hakkinen and the infamous clash with Jacques Villeneuve. Despite the scheduled time running short, Schumacher enjoyed the rare opportunity to relax in an empty bar, leading to an extension of their recording time.
Obtaining the Footage
After the interview concluded, the team faced another hurdle. F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone initially hesitated to release the footage, deeming the content outdated. However, Schumacher intervened on behalf of the film crew, advocating for them to receive permission to use the recording.
- Wilman detailed the challenges posed by Ecclestone’s initial refusal.
- Schumacher’s willingness to support the project led to Ecclestone’s change of heart.
Ultimately, Schumacher’s gesture reflected his character and dedication to the sport. Wilman fondly recalled how the interaction deepened their admiration for the racing legend, ultimately solidifying a memorable story that continues to resonate within the motorsport community.
