Michael Schumacher was 'very likely' present at his daughter Gina's Majorca wedding
(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Michael Schumacher's heartbreaking way of communicating after first public appearance

by · Manchester Evening News

Over a decade since his catastrophic accident, Formula 1 icon Michael Schumacher reportedly communicates only through his eyes. The motor-racing star, 55, suffered a severe head injury during a ski trip in the French Alps 11 years ago.

Following a prolonged period in a coma, Schumacher now relies on continuous care provided by his wife, Corinna, along with a dedicated medical team.

Schumacher's family has meticulously guarded details of his health post-accident, allowing only a select few to be fully informed about the seven-time world champion's condition.

Nonetheless, occasional insights into his recovery have been shared; Elisabetta Gregoraci, the ex-wife of former F1 magnate Flavio Briatore, disclosed that Schumacher 'communicates only through his eyes', reports the Mirror.

According to Gregoraci, “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 vigilant control over visits, it's been claimed that Schumacher recently made a rare public appearance at his daughter Gina-Maria's wedding. Aged 27, Gina-Maria exchanged vows with Ian Bethke last weekend at the Schumacher family estate in Majorca, with German press reporting that her father attended the ceremony.

While the Schumacher family has traditionally kept a tight lid on public appearances, Michael Schumacher's attendance at his daughter's wedding might indicate a shift in their approach. Guests at the nuptials were reportedly required to leave their mobile phones at the entrance, a measure taken to safeguard Schumacher's privacy throughout the event.

Despite being away from the public eye, the Formula One legend continues to be a figure of interest and affection within the racing community. His son Mick has carved out his own path in F1 with Haas, drawing inspiration from his father's illustrious career.

Jean Todt, the former Ferrari boss, has occasionally provided insights into Schumacher's condition post-accident. In a candid revelation to a French magazine last year, Todt shared: "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 added, "His life is different now and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him."

Todt concluded with a somber note on fate's role, saying, "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."