Fans of Formula One have long wondered about Michael Schumacher’s health, and a small but meaningful gesture recently has sparked hope.
According to French journalist Stefan L’Hermitte, a recent act by the seven-time world champion might be a “positive sign” regarding his well-being.
Yet, despite this moment, Schumacher’s situation remains delicate.
Progress That Is Hard to Measure
At 56, Schumacher remains largely out of the public eye following the severe skiing accident that almost claimed his life in Meribel, France, in 2013.
Since then, the F1 legend has reportedly not regained the ability to speak, and there’s no evidence suggesting he can walk independently.
“I wouldn’t say he is doing well, but maybe he is a bit better,” L’Hermitte told RTL.
“Fundamentally, we don’t know anything. The only real news comes from his family, and that’s always very important. The news that comes from outside is probably not worth much.”
A Rare Sign of Life
The small act that caught the attention of fans and journalists alike was Schumacher signing a helmet for a charity event.
L’Hermitte explained, “This year he signed a helmet. Did his wife hold his hand? We don’t know exactly, but it’s the first time we’ve had a positive sign, almost a sign of life.”
Despite this, he added, “We still haven’t seen him walk, and apparently he still can’t speak. He might have small interactions with his family, but we can’t say he’s doing well.”
Daily Mail Sport reported that Schumacher’s wife, Corinna, helped guide his hand as he added his initials ‘MS’ alongside those of other living world champions for Sir Jackie Stewart’s Race Against Dementia charity, a touching gesture that highlighted his continued connection to the racing community.
The 2013 Accident That Changed Everything
Schumacher’s accident sent shockwaves through the F1 world.
He collided head-first with a rock while skiing, and although his helmet absorbed much of the impact, it cracked, leading to a traumatic brain injury.
The consequences were severe: Schumacher underwent two brain surgeries, was placed in a coma, and was only considered safe to move in June 2014.
Life Today: Care and Privacy
According to German broadcaster RTL’s Felix Gorner, Schumacher “can no longer communicate verbally.”
He added, “The situation is very sad. He needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers.
Currently, there’s a maximum of 20 people who can approach Michael.”
Meanwhile, Schumacher’s legacy continues through his family.
His son Mick has become a Formula One driver, while his daughter Gina welcomed a baby girl in April, bringing new joy to the Schumacher household despite ongoing challenges.
A Racing Legend Remembered
Michael Schumacher remains one of the most accomplished F1 drivers in history, with seven world titles (1994, 1995, 2000–2004), 71 fastest laps, and 155 podium finishes.
While the public sees little of his current life, small glimpses like the helmet signing remind fans that even legends face struggles away from the spotlight.