The Day After

Today is the day after Michael Schumacher ran his last race in F1. Perhaps it is fitting that as one era ends, another one begins.

Not that I wish to equate my writing skills with Michael's driving skills...

Anybody who has followed F1 over the past 16 seasons has been a part of a fascinating era in the sport, one which is unlikely to be repeated. In some respects it is like 1994 when everything changed from the Senna-Prost-Mansell era to the Schumacher era. Like most historical events, it is more clear in hindsight than during the tragic season of '94.

The good news is that Schumacher walked away from F1 with his head held high, having raced hard all the way to the end. There was no Prost walking away in a huff, no Mansell bad feelings, no tragic end like Senna's demise at Imola. The man who defined F1 for the past decade and a half(!) left the stage triumphant after a stunning race.

Many of those who read this will no doubt be suprised at what I just wrote. Initially I liked MS but grew to loathe him after the 1994 season and his subsequent fouls. However, like all greats, he was a man whose accomplishments I respect and whose approach to the sport I admire. Like Senna, you don't have to like him to appreciate the artistry he brought to F1.

I will have more to write but felt compelled to start at the beginning of a new era. Yeah, it sounds kinda strange and contrived but this is a sea-change in our sport. F1 will survive as it has but will be different than it has been. Now that the season is over, I will share my thoughts with my fellow F1 Freaks out there. Some of you may agree or disagree but we can all enjoy talking about the sport that we are crazy about.

Slug Sez goodnight!