Ralf Schumacher celebrates engagement to Etienne Bousquet-Cassagne in Saint-Tropez as ex-wife Cora sends public well-wishes despite years of feud

Ralf Schumacher, the former Formula 1 driver and younger brother of racing legend Michael Schumacher, is set to embark on a new chapter in his personal life.

According to reports from German outlet BILD, Schumacher will marry his partner Etienne Bousquet-Cassagne, 36, in the South of France this May.

This marks a milestone 19 months after Ralf publicly came out as gay, sharing his relationship with the world.

The couple has spent much of their time in Saint-Tropez, and the upcoming wedding celebrations are expected to last three days, reflecting both their love story and a vibrant social circle.

A Message from the Past: Cora Schumacher’s Well-Wishes

Despite a historically tense relationship, Ralf’s ex-wife Cora Schumacher has extended her congratulations to the couple.

Cora, who was married to Ralf for 13 years and shares their 24-year-old son David with him, sent a public note of goodwill through BILD, stating:

“Steven and I wish Ralf and Etienne all the best and much happiness.”

Cora refers to her current partner, Steven Bo Bekendam, a 44-year-old American, highlighting that she has moved on personally while still offering a gesture of kindness to her former husband.

Remarkably, Cora has had no direct contact with Ralf or David for years, yet her message signals a possible thaw in relations after a period of public discord.

From Lavish Weddings to Public Feuds

Ralf and Cora tied the knot in 2001 with a lavish ceremony in Salzburg, sharing over a decade together before their split.

Following their divorce, Ralf revealed his relationship with Bousquet-Cassagne, sparking a very public feud with Cora.

At one point, she famously burned her wedding dress and requested that Ralf leave her alone so she could “heal in peace.”

Over the years, Cora has publicly expressed feeling that she had “wasted her best years” on the marriage, highlighting the emotional toll of the split.

Rumors, Accusations, and Public Rebuttals

The aftermath of their divorce brought controversy and gossip.

Some speculated that their marriage had been a “sham,” or even that Cora had been contracted to marry Ralf on a ten-year deal.

She has consistently denied these claims, describing them as hurtful and false.

In interviews, including a chat with German comedian Oliver Pocher, Cora explained that she never agreed to a staged marriage and would never have married Ralf for money.

She emphasized that the allegations had caused her significant emotional pain and reaffirmed her independence:

“I didn’t sign a non-disclosure agreement in a marriage contract.

It doesn’t say anything like that. Otherwise, I would never have gotten married.”

Mixed Reactions and Reflections

While many have celebrated Ralf’s engagement, not everyone has been supportive.

One unnamed friend reportedly remarked to BILD that Ralf’s decision to remarry was a “surprise,” referencing past statements he had made about second marriages.

Despite criticism and lingering gossip, the upcoming wedding in Saint-Tropez is shaping up to be a joyful and highly anticipated event.

What’s Next?

Ralf Schumacher and Etienne Bousquet-Cassagne will exchange vows in May, with celebrations stretching across Saint-Tropez.

Meanwhile, Cora continues to cultivate her own life alongside Steven Bo Bekendam, and it remains to be seen whether any renewed contact between Ralf and his ex-wife or son David will follow.

Fans of the Schumacher family are sure to watch closely as this new chapter unfolds.

Summary

Ralf Schumacher is set to marry his partner Etienne Bousquet-Cassagne, marking a fresh chapter 19 months after coming out as gay.

His ex-wife Cora has sent her best wishes despite a tumultuous past, highlighting a potential easing of tensions.

The wedding will take place in Saint-Tropez over three days.

While rumors and criticism have surrounded their past and present, the couple appears focused on celebrating love and moving forward.