Former FIA president and Michael Schumacher’s boss during his time at Ferrari, Jean Todt, has given a rare update on the seven-time World Champion’s current situation and how his family “have to live everything differently”.
The argued greatest of all time has been heard of very little since his tragic ski accident in December 2013, which left the German in a coma.
Having spent an incredibly long time in hospital, the 91-time Grand Prix winner now lives with his family in Switzerland, well away from the public view, where he is regularly visited by Todt.
Todt and Schumacher built a bond during their highly successful time together at Ferrari, where the father of Mick Schumacher won five consecutive Drivers’ Championships from 2000-2004.
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Whilst Sir Lewis Hamilton has claimed more victories and podiums than him, Schumacher is still amongst many regarded as the best driver the sport has ever seen.
His legacy long remains today, with his son having features on his helmet reminiscent of Schumacher’s famous lids.
With his current health being known by so few, due to how small his inner-circle is, updates on his health are somewhat of a rarity; however, Todt has given an update, not necessarily on the 53-year-old’s condition, but on how his family are trying to cope.
“It’s a privilege for me to be close, in the family with Michael, with Corinna, with [Mick Schumacher] and Gina,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Their lives changed on December 29, 2013. They have to live everything differently.
“The important thing is that there is the closeness of friends. And Keep Fighting, their foundation
“They are things that are part of life and that they are more important than results and our beloved races. Life, for everyone, is not just racing.”
As a driver, Schumacher was fierce, aggressive, a king of the rain, and, crucially, an imperious winner.
With Max Verstappen on the verge of claiming his second consecutive Drivers’ Championship, some have highlighted the similarities between the pair’s driving styles.
Todt can see some of the comparisons between the two, most notably the Dutchman’s determination, and aggression.
Verstappen has remarkably built a 116-point-lead in the championship ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix this weekend, where he can claim the title.
Whilst he doesn’t know the 24-year-old very well, Todt recognises the Red Bull driver’s ability.
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“Max like Michael is very determined, very aggressive,” Todt said.
“Michael off the track is a wonderful person. I don’t know about Max, I can’t say. Now I see him all focused on racing, and rightly so
“Then, of course, both had great cars at their disposal. Because to win every driver, however exceptional, he needs a competitive car.”