The debate over the greatest Formula 1 driver of all time is especially intense. In most sports, fans look at championships as the primary measure of greatness, but F1 presents a unique challenge—two drivers share the record for the most world titles: Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton.

While legends like Juan Manuel Fangio, Alain Prost, Ayrton Senna, and Max Verstappen have all left their mark on the sport, the GOAT debate typically comes down to Schumacher and Hamilton. Now, one of F1’s most respected figures, Ross Brawn, who has worked with both of them has given his opinion on the matter.

In an interview with Auto Hebdo in January 2025, Brawn was asked to choose between Schumacher and Hamilton. He provided a detailed response, but his conclusion was firm: Schumacher stands alone as the greatest.

“Hamilton had the same commitment, talent, and desire as Michael, but with a different approach,” Brawn explained. “Helping him win each of his seven world titles was incredible for me. But there’s nothing above Michael.”

(L-R) Mercedes GP Team Principal Ross Brawn and Michael Schumacher of Germany and Mercedes GP (Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

Brawn’s praise didn’t stop there. “Talent is essential, and Michael’s was immense. F1 has seen many talented drivers who couldn’t fully apply it—Michael knew how. He had exceptional physical conditioning, incredible focus, and an unmatched commitment. He had every attribute needed and the intelligence to master every stage of his career,” Brawn concluded.

Brawn has a respected career in F1

Brawn, the former team principal of Benetton, Ferrari, and Mercedes, played a pivotal role in shaping Schumacher’s career. He worked alongside the German at Benetton and Ferrari, helping him secure all seven of his world championships—a record now shared with Hamilton. Brawn also had a hand in Hamilton’s early years at Mercedes before stepping away in 2013 when Toto Wolff took over.

In 2022, Brawn stepped down as F1’s Managing Director of Motorsports. During his 46-year career, he went from apprentice mechanic to team boss. Apart from working with Bennetton, Ferrari, Mercedes and Honda, he also founded his eponymous team, Brawn GP.