Michael Schumacher’s Former Boss Offers Rare Insight into His Condition
Flavio Briatore, the 75-year-old former boss of Michael Schumacher’s old Formula 1 outfit Benetton, has given a rare glimpse into the life of the iconic F1 racer 12 years after a skiing accident left him with a life-changing brain injury. According to the Daily Star, Briatore, who is now an executive at Alpine, appeared to confirm that Schumacher is bed-bound and reliant on his caregivers.
The racing icon’s family have been protective of his privacy since the 2013 accident, and little is known about his condition. However, Briatore told Italian publication Corriere della Sera, “If I close my eyes, I see him smiling after a victory. I prefer to remember him like that rather than him just lying on a bed. Corinna and I talk often, though.” The Daily Star reported that Briatore’s comments offer a rare insight into Schumacher’s life since his accident.
Briatore’s ex-wife Elisabetta Gregoraci previously revealed that Schumacher “doesn’t speak, he communicates with his eyes” and that only three people can visit him. According to the Daily Star, an insider close to Schumacher’s family gave a sad update on his condition in March, stating that he needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers. The insider also revealed that Schumacher can no longer express himself verbally.
Felix Gorner, a journalist from German broadcaster RTL with privileged access to the Schumachers, delivered a poignant statement about Schumacher’s condition. “The situation is very sad,” Gorner stated. “He [Schumacher] needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers. And he can no longer express himself verbally.” The Daily Star reported that Gorner’s comments highlight the challenges faced by Schumacher and his family.
The veil of secrecy surrounding Schumacher’s condition is extensive, and even some of his nearest friends are left in the dark. However, the Daily Star reported that Gorner believes the family’s strategy of protecting Schumacher’s privacy is the right one. “Currently, there’s a maximum of 20 people who can approach Michael. And, in my opinion, it’s the right strategy. Because the family is acting in Michael’s best interests. They’ve always strictly protected his privacy, and that hasn’t changed,” Gorner said.
The latest update on Schumacher’s wellbeing comes after a statement released by his wife, Corinna, in February. She expressed her outrage over a blackmail case involving a former family security guard, who was found guilty of attempting to extort the Schumachers. According to the Daily Star, the incident highlights the challenges faced by Schumacher’s family in protecting his privacy and wellbeing.
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