Michael Schumacher sustained a traumatic brain injury following a tragic ski accident in 2013, and fans of the former F1 champion have clamoured for health updates in the years following. The legendary driver has been largely bed-bound since his accident, with sparse statements on his health. Family members and close friends release occasional corrections on Schumacher’s state, preferring to keep his privacy guarded.
Where is Michael Schumacher now?
Michael Schumacher was kept in a coma following his accident while doctors worked to save the racing champion.
They slowly pulled him out of unconsciousness, which they completed one year later in 2014.
Afterwards, his family moved him home to Gland, Switzerland, where he continues his rehabilitation.
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In 2014, the Telegraph reported the racer was “paralysed and in a wheelchair”.
The most recent update on his health comes from Schumacher’s former Ferrari boss Jean Todt.
He told Radio Monte-Carlo he recently watched an F1 race with the racer, and he “keeps on fighting”.
Mr Todt said: “I’m always careful with such statements, but it’s true.”
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“I saw the race together with Michael Schumacher at his home in Switzerland.
“Michael is in the best hands and is well looked after in his house.
“He does not give up and keeps fighting.”
Mr Todt mentioned their relationship is not quite the same as it once was, and Schumacher’s family continues to fight with him.
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He continued: “His family is fighting just as much and of course our friendship can not be the same as it once was.
“Just because there’s no longer the same communication as before.
“He continues to fight. And his family is fighting the same way.”
Another optimistic update came from F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone, who said last month he was anticipating Michael could one day answer questions on his health himself.
He said: “He is not with us at the moment. But when he gets better, he’ll answer all the questions.”
While Schumacher continues on the road to recovery, only select people are allowed to see him.
Luca Badoer, a former colleague of Schumacher’s at Ferrari, said only his wife chooses who is allowed to visit.
He said: “Only a few people are allowed to visit Schumacher.
“His wife Corinna decides who is allowed to see him.”
While Mr Schumacher recovers, Italian Grand Prix winner Charles Leclerc has been hailed as his successor on the track.
FIA president Jean Todt and Formula 1 motorsport director Ross Brawn compared the Monegasque driver to the recovering racing hero.
Mr Leclerc said: “It’s always very nice to hear these type of things. But I’m only 21, I haven’t proved anything compared to what Michael has.
“So for now it’s it’s way too far to speak about these things I’m working on my career, trying to have the best career possible on my side.
“But obviously to be compared with this one, with these people it’s always an honour but it seems very far to me.”