Staggering reports have emerged that much-loved Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher is no longer bedridden. The 57-year-old, who has been largely out of the public eye since his devastating 2013 skiing accident in the French Alps, is reportedly now able to sit up and be wheeled around his home in a wheelchair.
Details about Schumacher’s condition have been scarce, as his wife Corinna has maintained a tight circle of those allowed to interact with him. However, sources indicate that despite sustaining life-altering brain damage, Schumacher’s condition has improved to the point where he is no longer confined to his bed.
Life After the Accident
Since the accident, Schumacher has required constant medical care, with a team of nurses and therapists reportedly costing around $20,000 per week. The Daily Mail reports that Schumacher is now often seen being wheeled around his $60 million mansion in Mallorca, a significant shift from his previous bedridden state.
While this update is a positive sign, the extent of Schumacher’s recovery remains limited. He is still unable to communicate meaningfully with friends and family, and his overall prognosis has not shown significant improvement.
“You can’t be sure whether he understands everything because he cannot tell anyone,” a source close to the family shared. “The feeling is that he understands some of the things going on around him, but probably not all of them.”
Family and Privacy
The Schumacher family splits their time between their home in Mallorca and their main residence, a $100 million mansion in Gland, Switzerland. The family’s privacy has been a priority, with few details emerging about Schumacher’s condition over the years.
In 2024, rumors circulated that Schumacher attended his daughter Gina’s wedding in Mallorca, but these claims were later dismissed. The wedding took place at the family’s luxury villa, which was purchased from Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez in 2017, under strict security measures.
Medical Opinions and Public Perception
Back in 2020, leading neurosurgeon Erich Riederer told The Independent that Schumacher might be in a “vegetative state” with little chance of full recovery. Previous reports suggested that he could only communicate with his eyes, highlighting the severity of his condition.
In a rare update during a 2021 documentary, Corinna Schumacher revealed that her husband was still undergoing rehabilitation and described him as “different but here,” offering a glimpse into the family’s ongoing struggle and hope.
Legacy of a Champion
Michael Schumacher remains one of the most successful Formula 1 drivers in history, with world titles in 1994, 1995, and five consecutive years from 2000 to 2004. His career boasts 71 fastest laps and 155 podiums, cementing his legacy in the motorsport world.
While the recent health update provides a glimmer of hope, the journey for Schumacher and his family continues to be challenging. Fans and the racing community remain supportive, honoring his contributions to the sport while respecting the family’s privacy.
As the situation develops, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for more positive news about the beloved F1 icon.