Inside Michael Schumacher’s ‘close’ friendship with ex-F1 boss Jean Todt – the ONLY people allowed to see stricken star
FORMER F1 boss Jean Todt has opened up on his close friendship with Michael Schumacher, as one of the only people still allowed to see the stricken star.
Schumacher, who won the drivers championship seven times between 1994 and 2004, has not been seen publicly since his horrific, life-altering skiing accident in 2013.
The news shocked the sporting world and since then his family have decided to keep the 53-year-old German’s condition private.
But Todt, 76, has now confirmed in an interview with German TV channel RTL that he and Michael watch F1 races together when he visits the seven-time champ.
Former FIA and Ferrari F1 boss Todt said: “I don’t miss Michael, I see him. Yes, it’s true, I watch races with Michael.
“But sure, I guess what I miss is what we used to do together.”
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And his old team boss still visits him twice a month, describing the legend as “so strong”.
“I don’t leave him alone,” Todt added.
“Him, Corinna, the family, we’ve had so many experiences together. The beauty of what we have experienced is part of us and it goes on.
“Sometimes success and money changes you. But Michael has never changed. He’s so strong.”
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During their shared time at Ferrari, Schumacher won five consecutive F1 world titles from 2000 to 2004.
It comes as Schumacher’s wife broke down in tears with the F1 legend was honoured with an award at an emotional ceremony on Wednesday.
The Ferrari icon was awarded the State Prize of North Rhine-Westphalia.
His son Mick, who drives for F1 outfit Haas, was unable to attend due to illness.
But Michael’s wife Corinna, 53, and daughter Gina-Maria, 25, were present to accept the honour on his behalf.
And they were joined on stage by none other than Todt himself.
Those in attendance at the ceremony paid tribute to Schumacher with a standing ovation.
And the gesture led to Corinna breaking down in tears in what was an incredibly poignant moment.
After the event, Todt tweeted: “An emotional ceremony in Cologne to honour Michael Schumacher’s outstanding career and charitable streak with Corinna, Gina, Mick Schumacher and Henrik Wust.
“I met Michael 30 years ago, with Ferrari, living his passion and bringing joy to millions of us!”
The ceremony was organised to honour the life of one of the greatest – if not the greatest – drivers of all time.
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The iconic racer started 306 Grands Prix during his illustrious career, winning on 91 occasions.
He raced for 15 years between 1991 and 2006, before making a short return in 2010 when he drove for Mercedes for three seasons.