Mick Schumacher has posted a poignant tribute to his father, the legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher, on social media. The throwback photo comes as the family marks another birthday for the seven-time world champion, whose health has been fiercely guarded since a tragic skiing accident over a decade ago.
A Private Family Tribute
The heartfelt post featured a childhood image of Mick with his father, both wearing racing helmets. Mick captioned the Instagram photo with the words: "Happy birthday to the best Dad ever. Love you!" His sister, Gina Schumacher, also shared a family picture, writing: "Happy Birthday Papa! throwback to one of many of our adventures."
These social media tributes, shared last January for Michael's 55th birthday, offer rare public glimpses into the family's enduring bond. The German racing icon, who turned 56 this year, has not been seen in public since the life-altering incident in the French Alps in December 2013.
The Ongoing Health Battle
Michael Schumacher suffered severe head trauma after hitting a rock while skiing. He was placed in a medically induced coma and his recovery has been managed away from the public eye ever since. Updates on his condition have been exceptionally scarce, a result of his wife Corinna's staunch protection of the family's privacy.
It is understood that the F1 great requires constant care and supervision from both medical professionals and his devoted wife. Jean Todt, the former Ferrari boss and a close family friend, is one of the very few people granted access to visit Schumacher at his home in Lake Geneva.
In a recent interview, Todt respected the family's choice not to discuss health specifics but confirmed he sees Michael regularly. He offered a poignant insight, stating: "He is no longer the Michael we knew in Formula 1." Todt added that Schumacher is "wonderfully guided by his wife and children who protect him."
A Legacy of Privacy and Respect
The strict control over access to the racing legend was further detailed by Richard Hopkins, former head of operations at Red Bull. He explained that visiting rules are tightly managed by Corinna, with only a select handful of individuals permitted.
"There are fairly strict rules, and we don't talk about those rules," Hopkins said. He acknowledged that while he, like thousands of others, cannot visit, those with the deepest bonds, like Todt, maintain that privilege.
The accident occurred twelve years ago, a stark anniversary that passed in December. Yet, Schumacher's unparalleled legacy in motorsport remains untarnished. He holds the record for five consecutive Formula 1 World Championships with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004, a feat that cemented his status as one of the sport's all-time greats.
Today, Mick Schumacher continues the family's racing tradition, having moved to compete in the IndyCar Series after two seasons in Formula 1 with the Haas team. The family's shared love for speed and competition endures, even as their private life remains a closely guarded sanctuary.
