Ralf has two big issues-- issues big enough to keep a phalanx of shrinks employed in perpetuity. First, he is the younger brother of seven time world champion Michael. Though everyone thought highly of Ralf's talents (he was certainly well compensated in anticipation of his potential), his career in Formula One was a big disappointment. I can only imagine how his mediocre career and successful big brother are eating him up inside. Poor guy.
Now that Ralf is out of Formula One, his search for glory continues. After two pseudo-secretive test drives, it looks like he will be driving for Mercedes in the 2008 DTM series. But the two motorsports are so different. He has a steep learning curve and impatient fans waiting for him. Will he succeed? Will failure further destroy this man's soul? Michael has urged him to resist driving in the DTM series. If Ralf heeds Michael's counsel, is he not perpetuating the role of the less talented, and naive, little brother?
On the other end of the DTM life cycle, we have two time F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen. In his three years at DTM, he had moderate success. In a field of young whipper snappers, Mika was definitely the elder statesman.
What's going through his head, as he announced last November that he was retiring from racing? Has he found closure? Is he content? Will his lack of success in DTM pester his subconscious for the rest of his life? In the 2007 season, I always enjoyed his post-race interviews, regardless of whether he won or lost. He seemed at peace with everything. He was focused and competitive, but he saw the big picture. His answers were detailed, entertaining, and honest. I will miss Mika. 
CKY
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