Michael Schumacher – Photo: Instagram
A source close to Formula 1 shared an update this week on Michael Schumacher’s health. The seven-time F1 world champion, who suffered a severe ski accident in December 2013 in the French Alps, has shown signs of improvement in recent months. The episode occurred in April 2025 during a charity event.
French journalist Stefan L’Hermitte, from L’Équipe, highlighted the gesture as the first public sign in over 11 years. Schumacher, now 56, signed a helmet belonging to former British driver Sir Jackie Stewart. The event gathered F1 legends to raise funds for dementia research.
The family has maintained strict privacy regarding the German’s medical condition since the severe head trauma. They reside in a property on the island of Mallorca, Spain, with access limited to about 20 close individuals.
- Signature with “MS” initials on Stewart’s white helmet;
- Participation of drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen in the auction;
- Funds raised for the Race Against Dementia, Stewart’s foundation;
- Gesture coordinated by wife Corinna Schumacher.
Charity gesture marks symbolic return
The autograph on Stewart’s helmet occurred at a charity auction featuring signatures from all living F1 champions. This was the only public act attributed to Schumacher since the accident in Méribel, France. The family coordinated the participation to preserve privacy.
L’Hermitte noted that the episode suggests possible stabilization in the former driver’s condition. Details about the signing process remain confidential. The initiative supported causes related to neurological diseases, a sensitive area after Schumacher’s trauma.
Victorious Formula 1 career
Schumacher won seven world titles between 1994 and 2004, a record tied with Lewis Hamilton. He amassed 91 Grand Prix victories and 68 pole positions in his career. His tenure with Benetton and Ferrari defined an era of dominance in the sport.
The German retired in 2006, returned in 2010 with Mercedes, and ended his career in 2012. Before the accident, he enjoyed ski events with family. His legacy includes 155 podiums and influence on generations of drivers.
Close friends like Jean Todt, former Ferrari boss, visit Schumacher regularly. Todt reports interactions watching races on TV in private sessions. Other close figures, like Ross Brawn and Gerhard Berger, form the restricted access circle.
The routine involves ongoing medical care at home, with therapies for physical maintenance. Flavio Briatore, former Benetton boss, avoids visits to preserve memories of the driver’s active phase. Corinna manages treatments with Swiss specialists.
Family privacy protection
The Schumacher family has prioritized isolation since 2013 to avoid speculation. Rumors about his presence at daughter Gina’s wedding in 2024 were denied by former colleagues. Only a select group, including his wife and children, handles updates.
In March 2025, an RTL reporter confirmed Schumacher relies on full-time care and does not communicate verbally. The Mallorca residence is equipped with advanced medical devices. The medical team monitors vital signs 24/7.
Recent violations expose risks
A former family employee attempted to sell private materials in 2025. The German court sentenced the individual to three years in prison for breach of trust. Corinna stressed the need for strict penalties against similar invasions.
The case highlighted vulnerabilities in protecting public figures. Authorities investigated criminal contacts involved in the attempted sale. The family strengthened security protocols at the Spanish property.
Schumacher interacts with family through eye gestures, according to 2025 reports. Therapies include auditory stimuli with F1 engine sounds for familiarity. Remote consultations with global experts adjust the rehabilitation plan monthly.
Legacy inspires motorsport community
Current drivers cite Schumacher as a reference in 2025 interviews. Max Verstappen praised his precision in corners during the Monza GP. Documentaries about his career gained streaming platform releases this year.
Ferrari honored the former driver at internal events, showcasing his title trophies. Fans organized online tributes after the helmet autograph. His impact extends beyond racing, with foundations tied to sport safety.
The close circle includes former rivals maintaining indirect contact via Corinna. These ties preserve Schumacher’s competitive spirit. Formula 1 evolved with rules inspired by his achievements, like testing limits.
Advances in medical treatment
Treatments for head injuries have advanced since 2013 with neurostimulation technologies. Schumacher receives personalized mobility sessions. Portable devices track motor responses in real time.
Swiss medical teams integrate physiotherapy with virtual reality tailored to sports. Reports from 2025 indicate a focus on preventing secondary complications. The family collaborates with brain injury research for anonymous contributions.
