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Daily Mail
07-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mail
Revealed: The 'three people allowed to visit Michael Schumacher' - with F1 icon not seen in public since horror skiing accident in 2013
The three people that are reportedly permitted to visit Formula One legend Michael Schumacher have been revealed. Schumacher has remained outside of the public eye since suffering a serious brain injury whilst skiing in the French Alps in 2013. The legendary driver subsequently spent several months in a medically induced coma after two surgical interventions. Schumacher is cared for by a team of medical staff and his wife Corinna at their Lake Geneva home. The relative silence in terms of updates surrounding the seven-time world champion's health has led to a consistent stream of speculation from those whom he was previously close to. In 2020, Italian TV personality Elisabetta Gregoraci - who was previously married to former Benetton chief Flavio Briatore - claimed to know the size of Schumacher's trusted inner circle. She said: 'Michael doesn't speak, he communicates with his eyes. 'Only three people can visit him and I know who they are.' An investigation from The Telegraph has since claimed to reveal the identity of the three individuals in question. French racing executive Jean Todt, who worked closely alongside Schumacher during his hugely-successful time at Ferrari is said to be one. Meanwhile Ross Brawn, who led Ferrari to five consecutive constructors titles between 2000 and 2004 is believed to be another. The final member of the three is said to be Austrian former Formula One driver Gerhard Berger, who has gone from being Schumacher's rival on the track to a close confidant of the family. Schumacher's family remain very protective of his privacy and it is understood that many of their close friends and relations are even unsure about the state of his health. The German's seven world drivers' titles stood as a record for more than a decade, equalled only by Lewis Hamilton's triumph in 2020.
The Sun
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Inside Schumacher's inner circle as F1 boss reveals who ‘regularly' sees tragic star… & his shock at pal who WON'T visit
AN F1 boss has revealed insider information on Michael Schumacher's inner circle - like who "regularly" visits him and his shock at one pal who won't. Schumacher hasn't been in the public eye since a devastating skiing accident 12 years ago and is cared for by medical staff and his wife Corinna at their home in Lake Geneva. 6 6 6 The F1 legend's family have remained very protective of his privacy, with little known about his condition since the 2013 accident. Now ex-Red Bull chief Richard Hopkins has spoken out about the star - and revealed who regularly him. He told Todt, that's well known. Jean and Michael had an extraordinarily close relationship. "I believe Luca Badoer, who is a close family friend, visits him. "If there is a third, I don't know who that would be." But Hopkins also spoke of a pal who won't visit Schumacher - Flavio Briatore. He added: "Flavio is, as we know, a flamboyant character. I would have thought he would have probably been the first person who would have wanted to see Michael in whatever way that was. But you have to respect that decision. "That's down to the individual. Not necessarily shared by all. I know there are close friends that go and see Schumacher and that's their own choice and for their own reasons. "But Flavio has obviously got his and it's very deep and personal how we remember people, and how we want to remember people. "I think we all have to respect that one." In 2020 Briatore's former wife Elisabetta Gregoraci claimed that: 'Michael doesn't speak, he communicates with his eyes.' Addressing this rumour, Hopkins said: "I'm not in that circle to know the absolute facts about Schumacher. Not many people are. Does he communicate through his eyes? Quite possibly. "There is rumour he does watch Grand Prixs. But this is just speculation and perhaps unfair for anyone to make assumptions and guesses. "Any remark I make will be unqualified as well in that sense, so it's difficult to be drawn on it." In April, Schumacher signed a charity helmet belonging to fellow F1 icon Sir Jackie Stewart with help from Corinna. The helmet will be auctioned to raise money for Stewart's charity Race Against Dementia. But Hopkins has described the signing as potentially being a "one-off". He said: "I suspect that [Jackie Stewart helmet signature] gesture was a one-off. There was a lot of media around that and maybe for the family too much media. 6 6 "They try to keep everything quiet and private, so I'd hazard a guess that it was a one-off. "It was a great gesture from the family to organise that." Yilmaz Tozturkan, 53, and his son Daniel Lins, 30, had threatened to publish videos and pictures of Schumacher unless they were given £12million. Security guard Markus Fritsche had copied the private material while working for the Schumachers and sold it to the two men. In February the trio were found guilty of their part in the blackmail plot. Fritsche was given a two-year suspended sentence, while Tozturkan was jailed for three years and Lins was given a six-month suspended prison sentence by a German court. Schumacher's wife Corinna wanted a harsher sentence for Fritsche. She said: 'What still shocks me most is the massive breach of trust. 'He should receive a punishment for this that deters others from potentially doing the same.' When Schumacher's head hit a boulder in the skiing accident 12 years ago, it split his helmet in two. The brain injury was so serious that he spent 250 days in a coma. The best medical treatment that money could buy brought the sporting great, who is worth £468million, back to consciousness. There had been rumours that further treatment in Paris had allowed Schumacher to take some small steps, but that was later dismissed. What do we know about Schumacher since his accident? MICHAEL Schumacher's life changed forever on December 29, 2013, when a skiing accident left the seven-time F1 champion with a severe brain injury. Since then, his family has protected his privacy, with only a select few remaining in contact with the racing legend. December 29, 2013 - The skiing accident: Schumacher suffers a life-threatening head injury while skiing off-piste in Méribel, France. He falls and hits his head on a rock, causing severe brain trauma despite wearing a helmet. He is airlifted to a hospital in Grenoble, where he undergoes two emergency surgeries. Doctors place him in a medically induced coma to reduce swelling in his brain. January 2014 - Schumacher fights for his life: Schumacher remains in a coma. Doctors describe his condition as 'critical but stable'. His family, led by wife Corinna, remains at his bedside. The world's F1 community rallies behind him, with fans holding vigils outside the hospital. June 2014 - Schumacher brought out of his coma: After nearly six months, Schumacher is brought out of his coma. His family confirms he is no longer in a coma but gives no further health details. He is transferred from Grenoble to a rehabilitation facility in Lausanne, Switzerland. September 2014 - Back home: Schumacher is moved to his family home near Lake Geneva. Corinna announces he will continue his recovery at home, with a dedicated medical team. 2015–2018 - Mystery surrounding his health: Reports suggest Schumacher is receiving round-the-clock medical care at home, costing £50,000 per week. Jean Todt reveals he still visits Schumacher and that they watch F1 races together. May 2017 - German magazine sued by Schumacher's family: The magazine Bunte has to pay Michael Schumacher €50,000 (£42,000) in damages after claiming in 2015 that Schumacher would walk again. The Hamburg regional court determined that the statement was false and infringed upon Schumacher's right to privacy. September 2019 - Schumacher secretly transferred to Paris: French media reports that Schumacher is taken to Paris for stem cell therapy at the Georges-Pompidou Hospital. The procedure is led by renowned surgeon Dr. Philippe Menasché. Details of the treatment remain undisclosed. December 2019 - Manager issues rare statement: Schumacher's longtime manager Sabine Kehm says his condition will remain private. She dismisses speculation and false reports about his health. September 2021 - Netflix documentary 'Schumacher' released: A new Netflix documentary, Schumacher, provides rare insights into his life. Corinna speaks publicly about his condition for the first time, saying: 'Michael is here. Different, but he's here, and that gives us strength.' December 2023 - 10 years since the accident: Schumacher turns 55. The anniversary of his accident is marked by tributes from the F1 world. Jean Todt confirms he still sees Schumacher regularly and describes his visits as 'full of affection'. September 2024 - Daughter Gina's wedding: Gina Schumacher, 27, marries longtime boyfriend Iain Bethke at the family's £27million Majorca villa. Reports claim Schumacher attends the wedding, but close friend Johnny Herbert later calls it 'A1 fake news'. Guests are reportedly required to hand over their phones to prevent leaks. December 2024 - Schumacher to become a grandfather: Gina announces she is pregnant, three months after her wedding. She shares the news on Instagram, writing: 'Impatiently awaiting the arrival of our little girl.'
Khaleej Times
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
UAE's Ben Sulayem backed by clubs across Americas for second term as FIA chief
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), received a strong support for a second term at office. The Emirati motor sport legend, who recently declared his bid for a second four-year-term, received a letter of support from as many as 36 clubs from the Americas with Vice-Presidents for Sport in North and South America backing him to continue the good work as the head of the global governing body. Ben Sulayem, who succeeded Jean Todt as the FIA chief in December 2021, had led an incredible turnaround in the financial health of the motor sports' governing body. 'We are all acutely aware of the catastrophic financial situation you inherited. Without the decisive and bold actions you took from day one, the very future of the FIA would have been at risk," the letter said. 'The turnaround achieved in less than four years is nothing short of extraordinary, especially when coupled with the implementation of professional management systems that you deployed in parallel. 'As club Presidents, we have personally felt and experienced the daily focus you and your leadership team have placed on supporting and engaging with us - the members - treating each of us with equal respect. This inclusive approach is deeply appreciated." The FIA has also adopted a more efficient and sustainable working practice under the leadership of Ben Sulayem, who won 14 Middle East Rally Championships in his career. 'We also recognise and commend the significant efforts made by you and your team to reposition the FIA as a global leader in both mobility and motorsport. The strength and reputation of the FIA brand have clearly grown as a result of your leadership,' the letter said. Ben Sulayem was 'honoured' by the support he has received from the Member Clubs. 'I remain committed to expanding motorsport participation through grassroots initiatives and accessibility programmes like the Affordable Cross Car and the Global Karting Plan," he said. 'At the same time, I continue to empower every region by leveraging the FIA's mobility expertise, reinforcing its central role in the automotive industry, and leading vital conversations around the future of sustainable cities, road safety, and intelligent transport systems. Together, we will continue to deliver a stronger FIA we can each be proud of." Until now, no rival candidate has been announced, but Carlos Sainz, a former world rally champion, is reportedly interested in contesting against Ben Sulayem. "Let him stand. That is democracy," Ben Sulayem told Reuters.
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Why the V10 debate has been triggered by frustration over F1's 2026 regs
Motorsport photo 'I wouldn't be too vocal supporting the comeback of a V10 engine if I liked what I saw from 2026,' said Carlos Sainz during the pre-Bahrain Grand Prix press conference. As he did so, a palpable wrinkle of disdain passed across the bridge of his nose. Warming to his theme, he continued. 'But as I don't really like what I see from 2026 in terms of what the car is going to do, the engine's going to do, the way everything is going to work, I would say yes – I would like a V10 engine, with a few tweaks, to make it back sooner rather than later. 'At the same time, it's not fair to not give those regulations a bit of a chance, if everyone believes they're so good. But everyone seems to believe they're not so good anymore – that's why everyone's talking about it [V10s] again. So a bit of a strange one, no?' It seems most peculiar to speak about a set of technical regulations which were pretty much agreed upon four years ago as if they were an abstract thought experiment. But here we are. Advertisement The power unit format is at the heart of the 2026 technical package and the fundamentals of that were settled while Jean Todt was still FIA president. At the time, Honda was heading for the exit, the list of putative new power unit suppliers was a short one, and there was no guarantee of the existing ones hanging on for much longer. You might assume Ferrari would remain loyal – but would it want to be last man standing, like Maurice Gibb when his fellow Bee Gees stormed off the Clive Anderson Show? Unlikely. So, with governments around the world leaning on car manufacturers to embrace electrification, it was agreed upon to increase the influence of the electrical systems on the balance of engine power. In another bid to consolidate the existing portfolio of car makers and potentially add new ones to it, the expensive and notoriously difficult-to-perfect ERS-H was consigned to the memory hole. Perhaps rightly so – it never made it into mainstream car production. The new format has succeeded in luring the likes of Audi and Cadillac but, as the deadline for implementation looms, F1's stakeholders have belatedly grasped the full horror of the unintended consequences. The 2026 chassis regulations, finally ratified very late in the day, are an unholy mess of ugly compromises to minimise the power units' limitations. Advertisement F1 and the FIA have tried to window-dress these foolishnesses as improvements to the spectacle. What the spectators will make of X-mode or Y-mode or whatever is yet to be determined; what we can say with utmost certainty is that the drivers don't give a fig. Dewy-eyed nostalgia often rides in on the coat tails of fear of the unknown, and so it is here. The 2026 regulations have had to service so many disparate voices and conflicting interests that the finished article was never likely to satisfy everyone. The increasingly noisy clamour from those wanting to rewind to 2004 suggests the 2026 package now has very few cheerleaders apart from the chaos-is-a-ladder merchants. The idea of returning to a V10 engine format has gained traction with incredible speed. Reputedly it was first communicated by former F1 'ringmaster' Bernie Ecclestone by phone at an F1 Commission meeting on the morning of the F175 season launch at London's O2 Arena. You might recall that during the evening, the FIA logo was greeted by boos and jeers from the crowd. Advertisement Within days, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was musing about V10s out loud via Instagram in a rather transparent land grab to 'own' the notion before word got out. From there it went around like vomit in a lifeboat. If the 2026 regulations enjoyed widespread support, the fantasy would doubtless have sputtered out ere long. Instead the noise has grown in pitch and volume because so much doubt exists over 2026 in private and in public. Indeed, much of what was once private is now going public. 'I can definitely tell you what I think,' said Charles Leclerc when asked by Autosport whether the majority of drivers share Sainz's dislike of the 2026 package. 'I think V10 will be great. What I've been seeing for next year is not something that is particularly exciting for me. 'And I would say most of us are sharing the same opinion. Maybe some will be more vocal than others for different reasons – but yeah, I think we all agree that V10 will be a much better solution.' Leclerc added that he wasn't impressed with the safety of the new cars, either. One of the targets for the new package was that the cars should be lighter and therefore more agile – but, though short and narrower, they will only be 30kg lighter. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President Dom Romney / Motorsport Images Dom Romney / Motorsport Images Advertisement This is a small proportion of the bloat which has afflicted F1 cars in the past three decades and barely enough to make an appreciable difference to laptime, driver enjoyment, or spectacle. Leclerc's misgivings suggest some poor compromises have had to be made just to accomplish this meagre saving. Several team bosses and even a couple of drivers – notably Oscar Piastri – have lamented the business of going into one set of regulations while looking longingly at another, further down the line. Regardless of the outcome of the bring-back-V10s discussions, the 2026 regulations will be implemented. Various team principals have uttered the cliché 'the train has left the station' – but trains can be halted. A more apposite cliché would be 'the die is cast', first credited to Julius Caesar when he led his troops across the Rubicon. The real topic of discussion is how soon can the unloved 2026 rules be abandoned in favour of the V10 nostalgia trip. That could be as soon as 2029 or as late as 2031. And, as with the 2026 regulations themselves, anything could happen between then and now. Ben Sulayem could be dethroned in October, sapping momentum. Or 2026 might turn out to be a great season of racing. Little wonder, then, that when a rather grumpy Lewis Hamilton was asked about the future nirvana of V10s he shook his head and replied, almost with a sigh: 'Couldn't care less, mate, to be honest…' Read Also: Newey expects F1 2026 to be engine-dominated
