F1 driver’s retirement marks end of an era

It was one of Formula 1’s iconic duos that will be forever remembered in the sport. It only lasted a few years – but what a few years it was.But even when it ended after one of Japan’s perhaps less memorable grands prix, it still felt like there should have been a bit more life in it beyond that afternoon in Suzuka. At the time, there was.This is why Mika Hakkinen’s retirement, now 23 years ago, from F1 really is a bit sad. After the season finale in Suzuka the double world champion competed in the pinnacle of motorsport for the final time. However, on the day – he was still due an eventual return.The issue was back in 2001, Hakkinen’s planned departure from the sport was seen as a temporary one – a sabbatical as it was described at the time. A year off to recharge the batteries then straight back for the 2003 season firing again and on the charge for a third world championship.This was understandable. Between 1998 and 2000, he and Michael Schumacher had competed fiercely but fairly for the world championship in one of the most enjoyable eras of the sport.There is a caveat for 1999, where Schumacher’s title hopes were ended after breaking his legs at the British Grand Prix, but the battles for the world championship in 1998 and 2000 are some of the most fondly remembered in the history of the sport – tying at 1-1.Michael vs Mika, Ferrari vs McLaren and it all played out with one of the greatest soundtracks of Murray Walker and Martin Brundle in the commentary box. What a time to be an F1 fan.