Is there a special relationship between world champions? The answer would seem to be yes, at least according to Ronaldo. The Brazilian footballer, a star at Real Madrid, told German newspaper 'Bild' that he was a motor racing fan, but in a rather unusual way. Not bothered about going to a grand prix nor as VIP guest with a team, but through playing football with five times Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher.

According to the tabloid German daily, he found himself putting his boots on for one of the many matches Michael plays in for charitable purposes and that lit the spark of interest for the Brazilian soccer star in the world of Formula 1.

'I have to confess I try and watch as many grands prix as possible, even though with the races taking place on Sunday’s I never get the chance to watch them live. That doesn’t make them any less interesting though', insisted Ronaldo.

The two champions have also met off the field. 'Yes, that’s the case-confirmed Ronaldo - 'Although we have not met up as often as we do on the pitch and have not spent much time together. The last time dates back to this year’s Monaco Grand Prix'.

However, it did not take long for the two men to get on the same wavelength. 'Schumacher is a great sportsman - reckons Ronaldo - One of the greatest of all time. What I admire the most about him is his ability to maintain his nerve whatever the situation. I think there are very few people who share his powers of concentration, which is a rare and precious gift, especially when you think of the pressure he is under'.

It is a genuine and sincere admiration which goes further than an interest in a sport which had never really caught the Real Madrid forward’s attention, as he confirmed to Bild.
'Formula 1 has never been my favourite sport. I have to admit it is down to Michael Schumacher that I now switch on the TV to watch the races'.

Formula 1 therefore has a new famous fan, thanks to Schumacher’s love of football and thanks also to the particular rapport between these two great sportsmen, especially two great champions.