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Mika Hakkinen claims he was ‘a little better’ than Michael Schumacher in fierce rivalry

Arthur Ling by Arthur Ling
January 28, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Mika Hakkinen claims he was ‘a little better’ than Michael Schumacher in fierce rivalry

Mika Hakkinen Unleashes Bold Claim: “I Was Better Than Schumacher!”

In a thrilling revelation, two-time Formula 1 World Champion Mika Hakkinen has boldly declared that he was “a little bit better” than the legendary Michael Schumacher, igniting debates among racing aficionados everywhere. Speaking on the High Performance podcast, Hakkinen reflected on their fierce rivalry, recalling the intense moments that defined their careers and left an indelible mark on the sport.

The Finnish driver, renowned for his no-nonsense attitude, reminisced about their early days in Formula 3, particularly a notorious collision at the Macau Grand Prix that showcased both drivers’ tenacity. Hakkinen stated that their rivalry was built on mutual respect, setting it apart from Schumacher’s more volatile encounters in Formula 1. “Let’s fight on the track. Let’s leave the bullsh*t out of this,” Hakkinen explained, highlighting the unique bond formed between them.

This rivalry reached its pinnacle when Schumacher ended Hakkinen’s championship reign after back-to-back titles in 1998 and 1999. The German driver’s resurgence in 2000 marked the beginning of an unprecedented five consecutive championship wins, ultimately solidifying his legacy as a seven-time World Champion. Yet, Hakkinen remains unapologetically confident in his abilities, stating, “I think I was a little better,” as he laughed off the notion of Schumacher as the superior driver.

Delving deeper into Schumacher’s prowess, Hakkinen acknowledged the German’s physical strength and exceptional car control, which he described as “amazing.” He praised Schumacher’s ability to manipulate tires and suspension dynamics, admiring his talent while still asserting his own superiority. “Oh absolutely, of course!” Hakkinen confirmed when pressed about his belief in being the better driver.

The dynamic between the two champions was not without its moments of tension. Hakkinen recalled their infamous crash at Macau, where a seemingly simple miscalculation by Schumacher led to a dramatic turn of events. “He just made an incredibly silly mistake,” Hakkinen recounted, emphasizing how he strategically planned to overtake Schumacher, only to have fate intervene. “I touch his rear tyre, and I’m off,” he said, illustrating the razor-thin margins that define racing at the highest level.

Despite the fierce competition, Hakkinen refused to engage in mind games that Schumacher may have attempted. “He tried, but it doesn’t work. No, it just doesn’t work,” Hakkinen asserted. His unshakeable confidence in himself and his McLaren team allowed him to focus solely on the track, dismissing any psychological tactics employed by his rival.

With Hakkinen’s candid reflections, the world of Formula 1 is reminded of the exhilarating battles that have shaped its history. The legendary rivalry between these two titans continues to captivate fans, raising the question: who truly was the better driver? As Hakkinen himself puts it, “Let’s leave the bullsh*t out of this,” and let the racing speak for itself.

As racing enthusiasts eagerly await more insights from this riveting rivalry, Hakkinen’s revelations serve as a powerful reminder of the grit and determination that define the world of Formula 1. Will this bold claim stir fresh debates among fans and experts alike? Only time will tell.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-mclaren-f1-championshipmichael-schumachersMika Häkkinen
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