Damon Hill says he turned down a “very generous” Ferrari offer after being told he would be Michael Schumacher’s No.2. For bettors, it underlines that team hierarchy can sharply limit a driver's win prospects — favour the clear team leader in markets and factor in team orders when backing drivers at dominant outfits.
Damon Hill: I Rejected Ferrari Because I Would Have Been Schumacher’s No.2
Damon Hill has revealed he turned down a serious approach from Ferrari because the role on offer would have been as Michael Schumacher’s number two. The 1996 F1 world champion says the talks with Jean Todt took place in Italy and that, despite the monetary appeal, he could not accept the position.
The Todt Meeting and the Turning Point
Hill says Jean Todt told him the seat came with a clear condition: he would have to play second fiddle to Schumacher. Hill recalled being told, "You would have to be number two to Michael," and described the proposition as "not an offer you can't refuse, is it? It's an offer you have to refuse." He called the package "very generous" but stuck to his principle of wanting to be in the best car with the best chance of success.
Where It Would Have Fit in Hill’s Career
The possible Ferrari move is framed against Hill’s 1996 world title with Williams and the upheaval that followed when Williams released him at season’s end. Hill instead signed for Arrows for 1997 — a move that yielded limited results — before later winning once more with Jordan in 1998 and retiring shortly after.
What This Means for F1 Fans and Punters
Hill’s account highlights how team hierarchy influences driver opportunities and outcomes. For punters, the lesson is practical: in markets where a team clearly prioritises one driver, odds should reflect not only raw pace but team orders and role designation. Backing the designated team leader at dominant teams often carries greater value than betting on a nominal second driver.
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Damon Hill had the chance to race alongside Michael Schumacher at Ferrari.
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