Netflix to release new Michael Schumacher documentary 'Schumacher '94' in 2026

Netflix will release 'Schumacher '94', a documentary revisiting Michael Schumacher's dramatic and controversial first championship-winning season in 1994, in 2026. The film, announced at an event in Berlin, will feature personal insights from his wife Corinna Schumacher and explore the pivotal year that launched the German driver's legendary career.

Why it matters:

Michael Schumacher is a defining figure in Formula 1, whose seven world titles tie him for the most in history. Documenting his first title run is not just a look at a driver's origin story, but a deep dive into one of the sport's most turbulent and transformative seasons. The 1994 season was marked by profound tragedy with the death of Ayrton Senna, intense technical controversy, and the rise of a new, relentless competitor, making it a critical chapter in F1 history that continues to shape the sport's narrative.

The details:

• The documentary, titled Schumacher '94, is being produced by LEONINE Documentaries and directed by Christin Freitag. It is scheduled for a global release on Netflix in 2026.
• Personal Perspective: A key feature will be the participation of Schumacher's wife, Corinna, who will share personal memories and offer a glimpse into their relationship during that intense period, contrasting his fierce on-track persona with his private life.
• Season Context: The film will cover the highly charged 1994 season, which included Schumacher's maiden win for Benetton in Brazil, the fatal accident of reigning champion Ayrton Senna at Imola, and the controversial title-deciding clash with Damon Hill in Adelaide.
• Historical Backdrop: It will also touch on the shadow of accusations against the Benetton team regarding alleged illegal driver aids, which were banned for the 1994 season, adding a layer of technical intrigue to the sporting drama.
• This project follows Netflix's 2021 biographical documentary, Schumacher, but focuses specifically on the singular, career-launching season rather than his entire life story.

What's next:

The 2026 release will coincide with a period of continued fascination with F1's history, fueled by the success of series like Drive to Survive. For a new generation of fans who never saw Schumacher race, and for long-time followers, the documentary promises an intimate look at the pressures, controversies, and triumphs that forged a champion during one of the sport's darkest and most competitive eras. It serves as a focused prelude to understanding the dynasty he would later build at Ferrari.