Michael Schumacher: 12 years on from skiing accident, what do we know about his condition and who is allowed to visit him?

Today marks 12 years since Michael Schumacher’s life-changing skiing accident.

The seven-time Formula 1 world champion was seriously injured while skiing in the French Alps in December 2013. He fell while skiing off-piste, hit his head on a rock and was airlifted to hospital, despite wearing a helmet.

Schumacher was placed in a medically induced coma for several months before being transferred to his family home near Lake Geneva. He has lived there ever since, receiving round-the-clock medical care and remaining out of the public eye.

Michael Schumacher dominated Formula 1 in the first half of the 2000s, winning seven world championships during his career.placeholder image
Michael Schumacher dominated Formula 1 in the first half of the 2000s, winning seven world championships during his career. | Getty Images

Details about his condition have been kept private, but reports suggest his daily life is extremely limited. It is understood that he requires constant care from a large medical team, is confined to his bed and is unable to speak, instead communicating with his eyes.

Reports in 2024 claimed Schumacher attended his daughter Gina’s wedding, with guests asked to hand over their mobile phones to protect his privacy - although these reports have been disputed by his family.

Schumacher is one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history, winning five consecutive world championships with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004, with seven titles in total.

His former Ferrari boss Jean Todt remains one of a small number of people allowed to visit him. Todt, now 79, has maintained a close relationship with Schumacher and his family.

Speaking to Italian newspaper La Repubblica earlier this year, Todt said: “The family has decided not to answer the question [about Schumacher's health], a choice that I respect. I see him regularly and with affection, him and his family. Our bond goes beyond the past work.

“It is part of my life which today is very far from Formula 1. Michael is here, so I don't miss him - 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.”

It is understood that roughly nine people are permitted to see Schumacher, with visitation managed by his wife, Corinna.

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