Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher now communicates solely through his eyes, following a devastating skiing accident over a decade ago. The celebrated racer, now 47, suffered a severe head injury after colliding with a rock while skiing in the French Alps 11 years ago.
After spending a significant period in a medically-induced coma, Schumacher is currently under the constant care of his wife, Corinna, and a dedicated medical team. The Schumacher family has remained largely silent about his condition, with only a select few having full knowledge of the health status of the seven-time world champion.
However, some individuals have shared details about his recovery, including Elisabetta Gregoraci, the ex-partner of former F1 boss Flavio Briatore, who revealed that Schumacher ‘communicates only through his eyes’. She disclosed: “Michael doesn’t speak, he communicates with his eyes. Only three people can visit him and I know who they are. They moved to Spain and his wife has set up a hospital in that house,” according to the Mirror.
Despite Corinna’s strict control over her husband’s visitors, it is reported that the racing icon recently made a public appearance at his daughter’s wedding. Gina-Maria, 27, married Ian Bethke last weekend at the Schumachers’ luxurious Majorcan villa, with German news outlets reporting that her father was present at the event.
While gossip persists about the level of Michael Schumacher’s engagement with anyone beyond his closest kin, his attendance at his daughter’s nuptials could signal a new direction in tact by the Schumacher family concerning their renowned privacy. Attendees were reportedly required to part with their mobiles upon arrival at the wedding, ensuring Schumacher’s discretion was maintained for the duration of the event, reports Wales Online.
Although Michael has withdrawn from public life, he remains a figure of deep affection within the realm of racing. His progeny Mick Schumacher follows in his prodigious footsteps, now driving for Haas in F1 and pursuing the legacy of his celebrated father.
Former Ferrari head Jean Todt, who occasionally offers glimpses into Schumacher’s life post-crash, expressed admiration for the family’s handling of the subsequent years. However, he poignantly noted the significant alterations in his chum, remarking that Michael is no longer the same person he once was.
In a revealing talk last year with a French media outlet, Todt disclosed: “Michael is here, so I don’t miss him. [But he] is simply not the Michael he used to be. He is different and is wonderfully guided by his wife and children who protect him.”
He elucidated further: “His life is different now and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him.”
Todt summarised his sentiment, stating: “That’s all there is to say. Unfortunately, fate struck him ten years ago. He is no longer the Michael we knew in Formula One.”
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