Michael Schumacher's family marked the Formula 1 icon's 57th birthday with a poignant social media tribute from his daughter, as the seven-time world champion continues his long and private recovery from a devastating skiing accident over a decade ago.
A Heartfelt Birthday Tribute
On Saturday, Gina Schumacher, 28, took to Instagram to honour her father. She shared a cherished childhood photograph featuring herself, her younger brother Mick, their parents, and family dogs, all smiling for the camera. Accompanying the nostalgic image was a simple yet powerful caption: "The best forever. Happy birthday, Dad!" followed by a red love heart emoji.
The post serves as a rare public glimpse into the family's enduring bond, coming 12 years after the tragic incident that changed their lives forever. In December 2013, while skiing off-piste in the French Alps, Schumacher fell and struck his head on a rock. Despite wearing a helmet, the injuries were severe.
The Ongoing Private Recovery
The racing legend was airlifted to hospital and placed in a medically-induced coma for several months. Since being transferred to the family's residence on the shores of Lake Geneva, Schumacher has received round-the-clock medical care, with reports suggesting a team of up to 15 specialists attends to him.
Details of his condition remain fiercely guarded by his inner circle. It is widely understood that he is bedbound and cannot communicate verbally. According to Elisabetta Gregoraci, former partner of ex-F1 chief Flavio Briatore, Schumacher now interacts with those closest to him using his eyes. "Michael doesn't speak, he communicates with his eyes," she revealed, adding that only a very small number of people are permitted to visit.
The family's commitment to privacy is absolute. His wife, Corinna, explained their stance in a 2021 Netflix documentary, stating: "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 sentiment is echoed by Schumacher's long-time manager, Sabine Kehm, who has consistently asserted that "Michael's health is not a public issue."
Family Life Moving Forward
Amid this private vigil, the Schumacher children have built their own lives. Gina, a accomplished equestrian who won gold at the 2017 FEI World Reining Championships in Switzerland, married long-term partner Iain Bethke in 2024 at the family villa in Majorca. The couple welcomed their first child last year.
Her brother, Mick, followed in his father's tyre tracks, racing in Formula 1 before becoming a reserve driver for the Mercedes team. Gina has hinted at a potential new venture, with a preview for a YouTube channel focused on her equestrian life. While it may offer insights into her world, it is not expected to breach the family's strict privacy concerning her father's health.
As the motorsport world and fans globally remember Michael Schumacher on his birthday, the message from his daughter stands as a testament to the enduring love and strength of a family navigating an unimaginable challenge away from the public glare.
