‘Lost a mega star’: Ex-teammate opens up on Michael Schumacher

A former teammate and friend of Michael Schumacher’s has spoken about the true “shame” of the Formula 1 legend’s reclusive life.

Michael Schumacher salutes the crowd in 2012. Photo by Yasuyoshi CHIBA / AFP

Formula One legend Johnny Herbert said everyone has “lost out” on the absence of “mega star” Michael Schumacher since his tragic skiing accident 10 years ago.

The seven-time world champion has been hidden away from the public eye ever since, as his family maintains strict privacy around his condition.

Watch every Practice, Qualifier & Race of The 2023 FIA Formula One World Championship Live and Ad-Break Free in racing on Kayo Sports. Join now and start streaming instantly >

The 54-year-old was airlifted to hospital during a skiing trip with his son, Mick, to the French Alps in December 2013.

But very rare updates on his health have been given in the nearly ten years that have followed.

Speaking to CasinoSite.nl, Herbert explained the impacts of Schumacher’s absence around the track.

“We have lost a mega star of our sport who gave so much enjoyment to a lot of people,” Herbert said.

“It was very sad that Mick couldn’t have his Dad around and it is sad that we as an F1 community don’t have him around the paddock.

“It is a shame. Everyone loses out on learning about the Michael Schumacher we never saw when he was in the cockpit.”

Two legends — Schumacher and Niki Lauda — in one shot. Photo by Mark Sandten/Bongarts/Getty Images

Schumacher and his wife Corinna. Photo: AFP PHOTO

It is understood that even Schumacher’s close friends and family have often been left in the dark about his condition.

But his wife, Corinna, did at least offer a rare update during his Netflix documentary in 2021.

As he continues to undergo rehabilitation for his life-changing injuries, Corinna revealed that Schumacher is “different, but here”.

His son, Mick, has helped to take some of the spotlight away from his father since making his F1 World Championship debut in 2021.

Driving for the Haas F1 Team, the then 22-year-old finished 19th overall after 22 races.

The following year, he secured an improved 16th place finish, picking up 12 points, but is yet to compete since.

When asked whether Mick could drive again, Herbert said: “I think Mick Schumacher is in one of those horrible F1 situations that he probably did not impress enough when he was at Haas.

“And because of that he is damaged. And no-one is going to talk about him.”

However, alongside his mother in the family’s Netflix documentary, an emotional Mick gave an insight into his relationship with Michael.

“I think dad and me, we would understand each other in a different way now,” Mick said.

“Simply because we speak a similar language – the language of motorsport.

“We would have had much more to talk about and that is where my head is most of the time, thinking that would be so cool.

“That would be it. I would give up everything just for that. Yes.”

This story first appeared in The Sun and was republished with permission.