04/04/2022
Sabine Schmitz: The Queen of the Nürburgring
In the thrilling world of motorsport, certain names resonate with an almost mythical quality. For those familiar with the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, one name stands out with unparalleled brilliance: Sabine Schmitz. More than just a racing driver, Schmitz became a beloved icon, affectionately known as the "Queen of the Nürburgring" and, perhaps more famously, "the fastest taxi driver in the world." Her extraordinary talent, infectious charisma, and unforgettable television appearances cemented her place in motorsport history, leaving an indelible mark on fans and fellow drivers alike.
A Life Rooted in the Ring
Born in Adenau on May 14, 1969, Sabine Schmitz's life was intrinsically linked to the iconic Nürburgring. Raised in a family involved in the hotel and catering business, she grew up in one of the villages nestled within the formidable circuit. While initially training for a career in her parents' profession, the allure of the racetrack proved too strong to resist. Her sisters also took to racing, but it was Sabine who truly carved out a legendary path, demonstrating a natural aptitude and an unyielding passion for speed.
Schmitz's early racing career saw her achieve notable victories in various race events, including the VLN endurance racing championship in 1998. However, it was her success in the gruelling 24 Hours Nürburgring that truly propelled her into the spotlight. In 1996 and 1997, racing as Sabine Reck, she secured overall victories in this prestigious endurance race, co-driving a BMW M3 Group N with veteran racer Johannes Scheid. These triumphs were not merely wins; they were testaments to her exceptional skill, endurance, and deep understanding of the challenging Nordschleife.
The "Ring Taxi" Phenomenon
While her professional racing career was impressive, it was Sabine Schmitz's role as a "Ring taxi" driver that brought her to mass public attention. Driving one of the two BMW M5 "ring taxis" around the formidable 20.8 km (12.9 mi) Nordschleife, she offered paying passengers a thrilling, high-speed experience. Her approach was not just about getting from A to B; it was about delivering an exhilarating, entertaining, and unforgettable ride. Her familiarity with the circuit was astounding; by her own estimates, she completed over 20,000 laps, averaging around 1,200 per year. This intimate knowledge of every curve, crest, and corner earned her the revered nicknames "Queen of the Nürburgring" and, unequivocally, "the fastest taxi driver in the world." She often spoke fondly of her favourite sections of the track, the Schwedenkreuz and Fuchsröhre, highlighting her profound connection to the circuit.
Schmitz's company, Sabine Schmitz Motorsport, continued to offer these thrilling "ring taxi" experiences, alongside advanced driver training. Although she personally ceased driving the "ring taxi" in 2011, her legacy in that role remained. The experience of being driven by Sabine Schmitz was more than just a tourist attraction; it was an immersion into the very soul of the Nürburgring, guided by its most accomplished pilot.
A Star on Television
Sabine Schmitz's charisma and her "fastest taxi driver" moniker naturally led to a successful television career. Her ability to articulate her passion for driving, coupled with a wonderfully dry and often humorous commentary style, made her a natural on screen. She became a sought-after motorsport guest commentator, known for her gleefully candid descriptions of driving incidents.
Her television journey included co-hosting the motoring show "D Motor" on the German DMAX TV channel from September 2006. In each episode, she tackled various automotive challenges, showcasing her versatility and competitive spirit, whether it was a Ferrari 360 against a 1200 hp Race Truck or a Formula Renault race car versus a race sidecar. She also made appearances on the British show "Fifth Gear," further expanding her international reach.
Top Gear and Global Fame
It was her appearances on the BBC's iconic car show, Top Gear, that truly catapulted Sabine Schmitz into global stardom. Her first encounter with the show was in 2002 when Jeremy Clarkson experienced a "ring taxi" ride with her. However, it was her memorable appearance in December 2004 that cemented her legendary status in the UK. During an episode where Clarkson attempted a lap of the Nürburgring in a Jaguar S-Type diesel, setting a time of 9 minutes 59 seconds, Schmitz famously dismissed his effort, stating, "I tell you something, I do that lap time in the van."
She then proceeded to drive the same Jaguar S-Type, clocking an astonishing 9 minutes 12 seconds, beating Clarkson by a significant 47 seconds. The filming crew struggled to keep up with her pace, requiring Jaguar test driver Wolfgang Schubauer in a faster Jaguar S-Type R chase car. In a subsequent episode, she even attempted to beat Clarkson's Jaguar time in a Ford Transit diesel van, missing his mark by a mere 9 seconds. This ability to outpace performance cars in a humble van perfectly encapsulated her extraordinary talent and her unique connection to the Nürburgring.
Schmitz's involvement with Top Gear extended beyond guest appearances. In 2008, she participated in a "Top Gear Vs the Germans" challenge, pitting the Top Gear team against their German counterparts in a series of light-hearted, competitive events. Her charisma and driving prowess made her a natural fit for the show's dynamic. The admiration for her was so widespread that in March 2015, The Guardian published a satirical article suggesting she should become the new Top Gear presenter, praising her "knowledge and boisterousness" and humorously noting that her German and female identity would likely cause the show to "self-destruct." This sentiment was echoed when, in December 2015, The Daily Telegraph reported that Schmitz had been selected as a presenter for the revamped Top Gear, a move later confirmed by the BBC in February 2016.
A Legacy of Speed and Spirit
Sabine Schmitz's career was a remarkable blend of raw talent, unwavering dedication, and captivating personality. She broke barriers, not only as a woman in a male-dominated sport but also as a symbol of pure driving passion. Her ability to connect with people, whether from the driver's seat of a "ring taxi" or in front of a television camera, made her an inspiration to many.
Tragically, Sabine Schmitz passed away in March 2021 at the age of 51, after a courageous battle with cancer. Her passing was met with widespread grief and tributes from across the motorsport world and beyond. The "Queen of the Nürburgring" may no longer be with us, but her legend lives on. Her name remains synonymous with the Nürburgring, a testament to a life lived at full throttle, a life that brought joy, excitement, and a touch of madness to the world of fast cars.
Key Achievements and Highlights
| Year | Event/Achievement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | 24 Hours Nürburgring Winner | Overall victory with BMW M3 Group N |
| 1997 | 24 Hours Nürburgring Winner | Overall victory with BMW M3 Group N |
| 1998 | VLN Endurance Racing Championship Winner | |
| 2002 | First appearance on BBC's Top Gear | With Jeremy Clarkson on the Nürburgring |
| 2004 | Notable Top Gear appearance | Famously outpaced Jeremy Clarkson in a Jaguar S-Type |
| 2006-2011 | "Ring Taxi" Driver | Became "the fastest taxi driver in the world" |
| 2006-Present | Co-hosted "D Motor" | German motoring television show |
| 2016 | Presenter on revamped Top Gear |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was Sabine Schmitz?
A: Sabine Schmitz was a German professional motor racing driver and television personality, renowned for her exceptional skill on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, earning her the nicknames "Queen of the Nürburgring" and "the fastest taxi driver in the world."
Q: What made her the "fastest taxi driver in the world"?
A: She gained this title through her work driving "ring taxis" at the Nürburgring, offering exhilarating passenger rides at very high speeds, showcasing her unparalleled mastery of the circuit.
Q: What were her most significant racing achievements?
A: She won the 24 Hours Nürburgring overall twice (1996 and 1997) and the VLN endurance racing championship in 1998.
Q: How did she become known on television?
A: Her charismatic personality and driving exploits, particularly her appearances on BBC's Top Gear, where she famously outpaced Jeremy Clarkson, brought her widespread fame.
Q: When did Sabine Schmitz pass away?
A: She sadly passed away in March 2021 at the age of 51 after a battle with cancer.
Q: Was there a "fastest taxi driver" in New York?
A: The provided text mentions a plot for a film or show where a "feisty and talkative taxi driver" in New York helps a police officer. However, it does not identify a specific, real-world "fastest taxi driver" in New York in the same way Sabine Schmitz was celebrated for the Nürburgring.
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