They are leading very similar careers so far. Both joined Renault/Benetton (basically the same team) while they were the 3rd/4th best team, ended up winning two titles at a young age, both left the team after winning that 2nd title. Both times the Renault/Benettons have fallen behind. And now are we seeing Alonso bring McLaren their first championship in nearly 10yrs!?
I still think Ferrari will comfortably win both championship, but I'd be interested to see the stats of what Michael achieved at the same age. Anyone know?
I can't see Alonso beating Michael's stats, simply because Alonso has stated already he plans to hang up his helmet long before the age Michael stayed till. Also, I think Alonso has much more fierce competition in the likes of Kimi, Hamilton, even Button (when he gets a decent car). Schumacher, apart from his latter years, his only real rival was Mika Hakkinen, and that was only for 3yrs out of his 15yr career in F1. Damon Hill & Villenueve were no match for Schumacher really (I say that as a Hill fan too!!). Then Schumacher had by far the best machinery during 01 and 02, and in 03 I think Montoya would have probably won the title but for Michelin tyre controversy. Schumacher not no real challenge from a driver since Hakkinen, who was as talented AND had a car to compete until 2005.
I think Alonso is going to have some long battles against the likes of Kimi and Hamilton, even Kubica, Rosberg, Button - they all seem like the real deal at the moment. Michael never had that sort of competition. That's another reason why his stats look so good. Compare e.g. Prost, who had to deal with Senna, Mansell, Piquet, Lauda etc - these are all 'greats'. When looking at Michaels career, the closest guy we can call to being a great is Mika, and even then some would argue against that!