How Michael Schumacher communicates with the world after skiing accident 11 years ago

Michael Schumacher, 47, was left with life-changing injuries after a skiing accident in 2013. Since then, the seven-time world champion has only communicated with his eyes

Formula 1 icon Michael Schumacher is reportedly communicating only with his eyes following a devastating skiing accident over ten years ago. The racing champion, aged 47 at the time of the incident, was skiing in the French Alps when he tragically struck his head on a rock.

After spending several months in a coma induced by medical professionals, Schumacher now relies on constant care from his devoted wife Corinna and a dedicated medical team. The Schumacher family has maintained a veil of privacy around his condition, with very few individuals being privy to the full details of the seven-time world champion's health status.

Nonetheless, some have shared insights into his recovery journey, including Elisabetta Gregoraci, the former spouse of ex-F1 chief Flavio Briatore. She disclosed that Schumacher 'communicates only through his eyes' and mentioned, "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."

Despite Corinna's cautious approach to her husband's privacy, reports have emerged suggesting that Schumacher may have recently made a rare public appearance at his daughter Gina-Maria's wedding.

The 27 year old celebrated her marriage to Ian Bethke last weekend at the Schumacher family estate in Majorca, with German media claiming that her father was in attendance for the festivities, reports the Mirror.

In the private sphere, it's undecided if Michael Schumacher will step back into the public eye, but attending his daughter’s nuptials might signal a shift in the family's approach. Attendees at the wedding were required to leave their mobile devices at the entrance as part of measures to safeguard Schumacher’s privacy.

Despite his absence from public life, Schumacher has not been forgotten by the racing community. His son Mick has raced for Haas in Formula One, emulating his iconic father's journey.

Former Ferrari boss Jean Todt has occasionally provided insights into Schumacher’s ongoing recovery. He acknowledged the family's remarkable handling of the circumstances post-accident, though he accepts that Schumacher has fundamentally changed.

Speaking to a French magazine, Todt said last year: "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."

"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."