Formula One icon Michael Schumacher now communicates primarily through his eyes, nearly 12 years after a tragic skiing incident altered his life. Following a severe brain injury suffered in the French Alps in December 2013, the racing legend has remained out of the public eye, under the watchful care of his wife, Corinna.
Initially, fans held out hope for a full recovery for the seven-time F1 champion. However, the realization that Schumacher may never make a public return has gradually settled in.
Despite the limited visitation to the Schumacher residence post-accident, glimpses of the former racer’s current state have surfaced. Elisabetta Gregoraci, the ex-wife of former Benetton chief Flavio Briatore, disclosed in 2020 that Schumacher now communicates using his eyes.
Corinna, who married Schumacher in 1995, has been overseeing his well-being since the life-altering injury. This responsibility has led to strict visitor regulations around the racing legend.
In a rare occurrence, Schumacher was reportedly present at his daughter Gina-Maria’s wedding in September 2024 at the family estate in Mallorca. Guests were allegedly asked to surrender their mobile phones to prevent any unauthorized photos of Schumacher from being taken, successfully maintaining his privacy.
While most of Schumacher’s care has occurred at the family’s Lake Geneva residence in Switzerland, significant time has also been spent at the Mallorca home acquired in 2017. Corinna finalized the purchase of the expansive property, formerly owned by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, indicating a mix of locations for the family.
Despite his withdrawal from the public domain, Schumacher continues to hold a special place in the hearts of F1 enthusiasts and acquaintances. Jean Todt, Schumacher’s former Ferrari team principal, acknowledged their enduring friendship but provided a somber update on the German’s status in 2023.
Todt remarked, “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. His life is different now, and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him.”
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