WATCH: Fernando Alonso's god like reflexes to overtake Michael Schumacher at 2005 Japanese GP

Fernando Alonso's career is filled with remarkable achievements, but one moment that stands out as a testament to his audacious driving skills occurred during the 2005 Japanese Grand Prix. At just 24 years old, the Spanish driver executed one of the most daring overtakes in the sport's history, targeting the legendary Michael Schumacher.

In 2005, Alonso was already making waves in Formula 1, breaking Schumacher’s long-standing dominance by clinching his first World Championship title with Renault. By the time the F1 circus arrived at Suzuka for the penultimate race of the season, Alonso had already secured the championship. However, this did not deter him from making a bold statement on the track that would be remembered for years to come.

Here is the video:

Fernando Alonso overtakes Michael Schumacher 👀🤯

Japanese GP - 2005#F1 pic.twitter.com/hl1NQTvPen

— F1 History (@TodayF1History) August 17, 2024

The overtaking manoeuvre in question occurred on the 19th lap of the race. As Alonso approached the fearsome 130R corner, a high-speed left-hander known for its danger and difficulty, he found himself behind Schumacher.

The move Alonso made was nothing short of fearless; he chose to pass Schumacher on the outside of the corner, a decision that required not only immense skill but also extraordinary bravery. At speeds exceeding 250 mph, Alonso went flat out, showing no signs of hesitation as he overtook the seven-time World Champion.

Kimi Raikkonen won the race

While Kimi Raikkonen went on to win the race, securing his seventh victory of the season with a masterful drive, it was Alonso's audacious overtake that stole the spotlight. The move was a clear indication of the new era that Alonso was ushering in, one that would see the end of Schumacher's reign and the rise of a new champion.

Reflecting on his career years later, Alonso acknowledged the challenges that come with success. Despite his early triumphs, he warned reigning World Champion Max Verstappen not to fall into the same traps he did after his championship victories.