F1 Chief Gives Michael Schumacher Statement: "Life Changing Episodes"

In a reflective statement, F1 chief Stefano Domenicali honours Michael Schumacher's enduring legacy

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali recently reflected on Michael Schumacher's life since his tragic skiing accident a decade ago. Domenicali, who worked closely with Schumacher at Ferrari, shared his personal sentiments about the seven-time World Champion's changed life circumstances.

Key Takeaways:

• A Decade of Change: December 29 marks ten years since Michael Schumacher's life-altering skiing accident. Despite the passage of time, his absence in public and the impact of his condition remain a sensitive topic, with his family maintaining privacy.
• Respectful Reminiscence: Domenicali, who shared a close professional relationship with Schumacher at Ferrari, expressed his deep sorrow but refrained from commenting on Schumacher's current health out of respect for the family’s privacy. He emphasized the gravity of Schumacher's situation, describing it as something one would "never wish on your worst enemy."
• Legacy of a Legend: Despite his current condition, Schumacher's legacy as one of the greatest F1 drivers continues to be celebrated. His record of seven World Championships, matched only by Lewis Hamilton, along with 91 grand prix victories and 68 pole positions, cements his status in F1 history.

Stefano Domenicali, F1's chief executive, has recently spoken about the profoundly changed life of Michael Schumacher, the legendary seven-time World Champion. The upcoming anniversary of Schumacher's skiing accident, which occurred on December 29, 2013, brings back poignant memories of a life drastically altered. Schumacher, having left the hospital in 2014, has been out of the public eye, with his family fiercely guarding his privacy.

The German driver, revered in the F1 world, made history with his extraordinary achievements, including an unmatched five consecutive titles with Ferrari from 2000. Domenicali, who witnessed Schumacher's greatness firsthand at Ferrari, chose not to divulge any updates on Schumacher's health, citing respect for his family. 

“What is between them and me remains private, but living like this for 10 years is something you would never wish on your worst enemy," he told Rai Radio in Italy. 

“His accident in Meribel seems like yesterday. These are life-changing episodes.”

Jean Todt, the former Ferrari team principal and FIA president, also spoke about Schumacher recently. He acknowledged the profound changes in Schumacher, stating: 

“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 1.”

Michael Schumacher's journey, marked by unparalleled success and a tragic turn of events, continues to evoke a deep sense of loss and admiration within the F1 community. His legacy, however, remains untouched, immortalised in the annals of motorsport history.