Gina Schumacher has posted a poignant tribute to her father, Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher, on what would have been his 57th birthday. The heartfelt message comes over twelve years after the racing champion's life-altering skiing accident in the French Alps.
A Private Family Celebration
On Saturday, 28-year-old Gina took to Instagram to share a nostalgic childhood photograph. The image featured a young Gina and her brother, Mick, smiling alongside their parents and family dogs. Accompanying the photo was a simple yet powerful caption: "The best forever. Happy birthday, Dad!" alongside a red love heart emoji.
The post offers a rare public glimpse into the family's private world, which has been fiercely guarded since Schumacher's accident in December 2013. While he survived the incident, the seven-time world champion has remained entirely out of the public eye, with his condition a closely held secret.
The Ongoing Journey of Recovery
The tragic accident occurred when Schumacher veered off-piste in Méribel, France, and struck his head on a rock. Despite wearing a helmet, he suffered severe head injuries and was placed in a medically-induced coma for several months after being airlifted to hospital.
He was later transferred to the family's residence on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, where he continues to live. Reports indicate that Schumacher receives round-the-clock care from a team of up to 15 medical professionals. It is widely understood that his condition remains serious; he is reportedly bedbound and unable to speak.
According to Elisabetta Gregoraci, former partner of ex-F1 chief Flavio Briatore, Schumacher now communicates using his eyes. She stated, "Michael doesn't speak, he communicates with his eyes. Only three people can visit him and I know who they are."
A Family United in Privacy
The Schumacher family's commitment to privacy is unwavering. His wife, Corinna, explained their stance in a 2021 Netflix documentary, saying, "We're trying to carry on as a family, the way Michael liked it and still does. Michael always protected us, and now we are protecting Michael."
This position is echoed by Schumacher's long-time manager, Sabine Kehm, who has consistently stated that "Michael's health is not a public issue." Gina herself has largely remained silent on her father's condition, focusing instead on her successful career as an equestrian and her own family life.
In 2024, Gina married her long-term partner, Iain Bethke, at the family villa in Majorca, and the couple welcomed their first child last year. While she is set to launch a YouTube channel, previews suggest it will focus on her passion for horses and her personal life, rather than offering any new insight into her father's health.
As the motorsport world and his global fanbase continue to send their thoughts, the Schumacher family's quiet celebration of his birthday serves as a reminder of the enduring love and private strength that defines their journey.
