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      Inside Michael Schumacher’s ‘secret treatment’ to ‘rebuild’ F1 star as he has ‘£115,000-a-week’ medical care

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      MICHAEL Schumacher’s health remains a mystery – but he is reported to have undergone “secret” pioneering medical treatment, with hopes it could rebuild the legendary F1 ace.The former Ferrari and Mercedes driver is reported to have received medical care costing as much as £115,000-a-week as his family, friends and pals all hope he can recover from his horror ski crash.
      Michael Schumacher is understood to be undergoing treatmentCredit: Getty – Contributor
      His wife Corinna broke down in tears as she accepted a prize honouring MichaelCredit: Splash
      Schumacher’s health has been shrouded in secrecy since he suffered a catastrophic brain injury while skiing in 2013.
      But it has been reported the Formula One champion has had a team of 15 nurses and doctors offering around-the-clock care for him.
      The 53-year-old was placed in a medically induced coma for almost six months after the accident while he was on the slopes with his son Mick.
      It was reported after the ski crash he had surgery to remove blood clots from his brain.
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      But in June 2014, he was discharged from hospital so he could receive treatment at his family home near Switzerland’s Lake Geneva.
      His family have reportedly been forced to sell off Schumacher’s beloved private jet and holiday home in Norway – worth an estimated £25m – in a bid to cover his medical costs.
      And only small trickles of information have been released since, with reports that Schumacher remains in a wheelchair and can react to things around him.
      However, in 2019, it was reported that Schumacher was set to undergo breakthrough stem cell therapy in a bid to regenerate and rebuild his nervous system.
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      Renowned French cardiologist Dr Philippe Menasche, who had operated on him previously, was due to carry out the treatment to transfer cells from Schumacher’s heart to his brain.
      In stem cell therapy, cells are taken from either bone marrow or the patient’s own heart and injected into other parts of the body in order to repair damaged tissue.
      Italian neurosurgeon Dr Nicola Acciari said at the time that the legendary driver was suffering from muscle degeneration and osteoporosis as a result of being bed-bound for so many years.
      She said: “The goal is to regenerate Michael’s nervous system.”
      French journalist Jean-Michel Décugis told The Times that the stem cell therapy will have an “anti-inflammatory effect” which will most likely impact the brain.
      He said: “Our sources say that Michael Schumacher is receiving stem cell perfusions that… produce a systemic anti-inflammatory effect.
      “That is to say they reach the whole body and you could imagine that they reach Michael Schumacher’s brain.
      “It’s quite mysterious. Officially [Menasché] works only on the heart.
      “He is carrying out experiments with [secretome] that is made by a laboratory from new stem cells and injected into veins, until now only on animals.”
      NO MIRACLES
      Mr Décugis also claims that Schumacher is being injected with secretome – protein found in the human body – which he says Menasche calls “stem cell juice.”
      Dr Menasche however warned fans that he “does not work miracles” following the first widely-reported stem cell therapy on the sports star in October 2018.
      He also slammed claims he was carrying out “experiments” on the legendary racing driver.
      And in September 2019, he said details of Schumacher’s treatment would remain “secret” for reasons of medical confidentiality.
      Following the treatment at the Georges Pompidou Hospital in Paris, France, he was said to be “conscious”, although few other details were given about his condition.
      And years since he is claimed to have undergone the treatment, there has been no concrete updates – amid reports that the Schumacher family are seeking to spend the winter months at a new property in Majorca.
      In 2020, his former boss and close friend Jean Todt revealed Schuey was receiving treatment tailored to help him “return to a more normal life”.
      Todt, who oversaw five of Schumacher’s seven titles as Ferrari team boss, is one of just a handful of visitors allowed to see him at home.
      “I am very discreet on this subject,” he told Ouest France. “We all know that Michael had a very serious accident and, unfortunately, it had significant consequences for him.
      “Since then, he has been treated so that he can be able to return to a more normal life.”
      Schumacher has reportedly undergone pioneering stem cell therapy in ParisCredit: AFP
      His condition is still unknown, almost nine years on from his tragic accidentCredit: EPA
      Last month, Schuey’s wife Corinna broke down in tears – and she has previously admitted the F1 hero “is different now”.
      As she accepted the State Prize of North Rhine-Westphalia on her stricken husband’s behalf, she became emotional as she commented on her husband’s condition.
      And speaking on the Netflix documentary Schumacher, she said: “I miss Michael every day.
      “But it’s not just me who misses him, it’s the children, his father, everyone around him.”
      Although she admitted he was “different,” she insisted that “he’s here and that gives us strength”.
      Corinna also offered a brief glimpse as their life at home.
      She said: “We’re together. We live together at home. We do therapy.
      “We do everything we can to make Michael better and to make sure he’s comfortable. And to simply make him feel our family, our bond.”
      Former boss Ross Brawn told The Guardian in 2016 he still visits his friend regularly.
      “Michael was such a strong character and all through his racing career he only suffered a broken leg,” he said. “The irony of this happening during a quieter life was terrible.”
      He went on: “We go see him and hope and pray that one day he will make a recovery. I was quoted as saying he’s improving and it was not what I really meant. The family are conducting his convalescence in private and I need to respect that.
      “So I don’t want to comment on his condition beyond saying we’re extremely hopeful we’ll see Michael as we knew him at some point in the future.”
      Speaking just before his 50th birthday, she reassured his supporters that he was in “good hands” and that the family were doing “everything humanly possible to help him”.
      Todt also told Radio Monte-Carlo in 2019 that he had watched F1 races with the legendary driver on TV.
      “I’m always careful with such statements, but it’s true. I saw the race together with Michael Schumacher at his home in Switzerland.”
      He suffered a catastrophic brain injury in a skiing accident in 2013Credit: AFP
      Meanwhile, sources – described as “close relatives” – claimed in French magazine Paris Match back in 2018 that Schumacher cries when he sees natural beauty.
      They said: “When you put him in his wheelchair facing the beautiful panorama of the mountains overlooking the lake, Michael sometimes cries.”
      Michael is one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, dominating the sport in the early 2000s after rising to power in the 90s.
      He raced from 1991 to 2006, and again from 2010 to 2012 – a second act of his career which saw him become instrumental in setting up Lewis Hamilton’s dominant Mercedes team.
      The German won five world championships with Ferrari and two for Benetton.
      Schumacher retired in 2012, but just a year later he was involved in a life-changing skiing accident while on the slopes with Mick.
      And meanwhile, Schumacher’s former manager Willi Weber accused the star’s family of lying about his condition.
      The 80-year-old said he is still “angry” that the brood hasn’t updated him on the F1 icon’s health since his skiing accident nine years ago.
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      He took swipes at both Corinna and Jean Todt, saying: “They kept me out, telling me it’s too early, well now it’s too late.”
      Weber initially understood the need for secrecy from the Schumacher family but that since he got out of hospital, “we have only heard lies from them”. More

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      Sebastian Vettel could REMAIN in F1 next season with retiring Aston Martin racer holding talks with CEO Domenicali

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      SEBASTIAN VETTEL could remain in F1 next season after the retiring star held talks with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. The Aston Martin driver announced plans to step away from the sport after 15 years before last month’s Hungarian Grand Prix.
      After 15 years driving in F1, Vettel’s departure will leave a hole in the sportCredit: Rex
      Vettel made his debut in F1 in 2007 and went on to win four Driver’s Championships with Red Bull between 2010-13.
      There was an outpouring of affection for the German after his retirement announcement, not least from his friend and former rival Lewis Hamilton.
      But his time in the sport may not be done after fans tipped him for a leadership role within F1 after he spent years campaigning for issues like the environment.
      And Domenicali also signalled that could be on the cards after he held talks with Vettel.
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      The F1 chief told Bild: “Among other things, we talked about his decision and the future. Sebastian will always be associated with Formula 1. And of course, we want that connection to remain close in the future.
      “If he is interested in becoming part of our system and the approaches fit together, I would of course welcome him here.
      “But we already know that, after the season, he wants to sort himself out and enjoy time with his family.”
      Bild suggested that the new role could revolve around his recent activism in the areas of environmentalism, diversity and social issues.
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      Vettel did hint himself in his post retirement interviews that he could stay close to the sport – as well as pursuing other interests.
      The 35-year-old told Sky F1: “I have lots of interests. Some are very close to racing, and maybe they will take up more room in the future, and some have nothing to do with racing.
      “One thing is what we do and the other thing is who we really are. And as much as people know me and you know me and we know each other, there are elements I don’t know about you and you don’t know about me.
      “So the answer is it’s a little bit unknown. As even though you have these plans and so on, there’s no guarantee that they will all work and make me happy.”

      It’s been a big week for F1 legends with Vettel’s long-time rival Fernando Alonso also announcing he is on the move.
      The Spaniard is replacing Vettel at Aston Martin as the English constructors moved quickly to fill the void in their team.
      In contrast, Alpine’s attempt to replace Alonso were completely catastrophic. More

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      Lewis Hamilton could be left with BRAIN DAMAGE due to porpoising Mercedes, according to shock Toto Wolff claims

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      LEWIS HAMILTON could be left with brain damage because of his porpoising Mercedes, according to Toto Wolff. The Mercedes team have struggled with their cars bouncing all season, leading to the eight-times Constructors’ Champions to be off the pace of their rivals.
      Despite their issues with bouncing, the Mercedes team – spearhead by Wolff and Hamilton – are growing strongerCredit: Splash
      But in recent weeks the gap has closed as the grid headed to “smoother” tracks, with Hamilton on a run of five consecutive podiums.
      The new 2022 regulations has seen porpoising become an issue at Mercedes and affect other teams on the grid.
      And Wolff warned the situation was not safe for drivers.
      He told reporters: “I still believe that the FIA and all of us must do something about it.
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      “Frequencies of 1 to 1 hertz that last for a few minutes can cause brain damage. We have 6 to 7 hertz for several hours.”
      Rule tweaks are set to come into place after F1’s summer break for the Belgian Grand Prix.
      The changes from the governing body the FIA should see porpoising restrained and could close what some see as loopholes in the new regulations.
      Not all teams are happy about these changes, with the likes of Ferrari and Red Bull, who have largely gotten on top of the bouncing, potentially losing their speed advantage.
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      Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has signalled his discomfort for these changes, and said he “didn’t see any issues” with porpoising over the last few races.
      Wolff has rejected the comments of his former rival.
      He hit back: “That [argument] doesn’t count because Silverstone, Paul Ricard and Austria aren’t exactly tracks we bounce that much on anyway.
      “I don’t want to come to Spa or some of the later races where the track isn’t as smooth as a conventional racetrack and we didn’t do anything about it.
      “There is all this talk about lobbying in both directions, but what are we talking about here anyway?”
      Further rule changes could come in from 2023 to raise the floors of the cars, according to some reports.
      Horner was also not happy with that idea.
      He added: “So I think there just needs to be a common-sense solution, not rewriting the rulebook for next year at a point of the year, with budget caps where they are, which is just too late.
      “I think it’s actually an even bigger issue for some of the smaller teams that quite simply wouldn’t have the resources to be able to react.” More

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      How F1 could look in 2023 after transfer blitz with Albon extending with Williams and Ricciardo set for Alpine return

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      SEBASTIAN VETTEL’S shock retirement announcement last week has set off a chaotic chain reaction in Formula 1.Next season’s grid could look very different, with plenty of teams looking to shuffle their lineups.
      Sebastian Vettel announced his upcoming retirement last weekCredit: Rex
      Daniel Ricciardo may find himself looking over his shoulderCredit: Rex
      Some new rookies will arrive in the paddock, while more experienced drivers may look for a better seat elsewhere.
      Others find themselves looking over their shoulders, desperate to stay in Formula 1 altogether.
      As the drama begins to unfold, let’s take a look at all the potential movers and shakers.
      ALPINE CHAOS
      What we know for sure is that Fernando Alonso has ditched Alpine to replace Vettel at Aston Martin.
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      After being comfortably outscored by team-mate Esteban Ocon so far this season, the veteran two-time world champion feels that he will fare better elsewhere.
      The 41-year-old has agreed a multi-season contract worth £25million-a-year with Lawrence Stroll’s team.
      Alonso’s sudden defection left Alpine in the lurch, with boss Otmar Szafnauer only learning of the Spaniard’s decision via Aston Martin’s press release.
      This prompted Alpine, who had expected Alonso to extend his deal, to hastily announce that reserve driver and former F2 winner Oscar Piastri would be promoted into the seat alongside Ocon next year.
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      But in a sensational twist, Piastri DENIED the agreement, tweeting: “I understand that, without my agreement, Alpine F1 have put out a press release late this afternoon that I am driving for them next year.
      “This is wrong and I have not signed a contract with Alpine for 2023. I will not be driving for Alpine next year.”
      It is understood that Piastri, 21, will join McLaren – who already have two drivers contracted themselves.
      With Lando Norris on a long-term contract and performing well, Daniel Ricciardo is the obvious candidate to be given the boot at the end of this year.
      The Aussie has been bullish that his McLaren contract is secure, but the team themselves may believe that they have other options.
      Should he be axed by McLaren, Ricciardo may make a remarkable return to Alpine.
      The Aussie raced for the French team in the 2019 and 2020 campaigns – finishing fifth in the driver standings in his second year.
      Elsewhere on the grid – Ferrari have complete stability, at least on the driver side, with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz both locked in.
      ANOTHER CRACK AT EIGHT?
      Over at Mercedes, George Russell is tied down to a long-term deal, although Lewis Hamilton is set to be out of contract at the end of the 2023 season.
      The seven-time world champion was surrounded by retirement rumours during the last off season, but he currently appears as dedicated and focused as ever.
      Following Vettel’s retirement decision, Hamilton said: “I’m still fresh and still feel I’ve got plenty of fuel left in the tank. Of course, I want to get back to winning ways and that’s going to take time. I’m sure we’ll sit down at some stage and talk about the future.
      “I’m enjoying what I’m doing, and feel really proud working with this incredible group of people. I’m also enjoying working with the sport more than ever. We’ve got some great people leading the sport, we’re having great conversations about the direction we’re going in.”
      ONE TO WATCH
      Max Verstappen is locked in at Red Bull until 2028, while Sergio Perez recently extended his own deal to 2024 – although Red Bull have been rumoured to be keeping tabs on Haas’ Mick Schumacher.
      The German is set to be out of contract at the end of this season, although it’s expected he will stay alongside Kevin Magnussen next term.
      ALBON STAYS
      Williams announced yesterday that Alex Albon has agreed to extend his contract through 2023, with the former Red Bull star parodying Piastri’s tweet in his announcement.
      He’ll likely have a new partner, however, with Nicholas Latifi on increasingly thin ice.
      Mercedes reserve Nyck de Vries is viewed as a potential contender to take the Canadian’s seat.

      ANY OTHER BUSINESS
      Over at Alfa Romeo, Valtteri Bottas is locked into a long-term contract.
      Rookie Zhou Guanyu’s deal is up at the end of the season, but the Chinese driver has shown enough to suggest that he’ll likely be given an extension.
      Pierre Gasly is down for another year at AlphaTauri, although Yuki Tsunoda may be sweating as his deal expires at the end of this campaign.
      The Japanese 22-year-old has shown some signs of improvement this year, and may just about manage to keep his seat.
      Meanwhile, Lance Stroll will partner Alonso at Aston Martin.
      Lewis Hamilton is feeling good at MercedesCredit: AFP
      Alex Albon is staying at WilliamsCredit: Getty
      Most of the grid’s best drivers are locked in for next yearCredit: Rex More

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      From picking up litter to LGBTQ fight and saving bees – Vettel is more than an F1 great having promoted vital causes

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      SEBASTIAN VETTEL leaves Formula 1 at the end of this season as a true great.The four-time world champion will go down in history as a racing legend having claimed successive drivers’ championships between 2010 and 2013.
      Vettel has announced he will be retiring from the sport at the end of the 2022 seasonCredit: Getty
      Vettel won the first of his four world championships back in 2010Credit: AFP
      He went on to dominate the sport with Red Bull until 2013Credit: EPA
      He has won 53 F1 races and managed 122 podiums during a stunning 15-year career.
      But in recent years his off-track work has garnered more attention than the racing itself.
      Here are some of the initiatives and moments away from racing which have shown Vettel to be one of the most inspirational figures in the sport’s history.
      Litter picker
      Vettel was filmed helping with the litter picking after the 2021 British Grand PrixCredit: Instagram @F1

      Following the 2021 British Grand Prix, Vettel was filmed helping with the litter picking as stewards cleared the messy grandstands.
      The German driver had been forced to retire from the race earlier on that day.
      But that did not stop him from returning to the side of the circuit to nobly carry bags of rubbish away in what was a very nice touch.
      The gesture came as he prepared to speak about how crucial sustainability is to the world’s future.
      After Silverstone, he told ESPN: “When it comes to picking stuff up, we can’t do everything because that’s not possible, but every time I am out running and I see something, I pick it up and put it in the bin or take it home and put it in the bin.
      “I’ve noticed at the tracks there is a lot of stuff lying around after the races and I think it was a good opportunity, also for myself, to see the problem we are facing.”
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      LGBTQ rights activist
      Vettel has worn rainbow shirts before races to show support for the LGBTQ communityCredit: The Mega Agency
      Another cause Vettel has taken to overtly supporting in the past few years is rights for the LGBTQ community.
      The multiple world champion has been wearing rainbow-coloured shirts ahead of races with statements such as “same love” written on them.
      And he has also vocalised his desire to see all forms of discrimination eradicated across the world.
      Speaking to The Race in December, he said: “There are certain topics too big to neglect. We all agree – and it doesn’t matter where you come from – that it’s only fair to treat people equally.
      “I feel our sport could apply a lot of pressure and could be of immense help to spread that fairness around the globe even more.
      I think it’s not right to judge people or apply certain laws which differentiate people just because they happen to love a man instead of a woman or a woman instead of a man.
      “That’s one thing, or the way they look, or their background or the things they believe in. I think any form of separation is wrong.”
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      Climate campaigning on Question Time
      “You’ve talked a lot about energy…does that make you a hypocrite?”“When I get out of the car, of course I’m thinking, is this something that we should do?”On #bbcqt tonight, F1 driver Sebastian Vettel and the panel discuss the energy crisis.Join us at 10.40pm on @BBCOne. pic.twitter.com/LVMMs4CuvY— BBC Question Time (@bbcquestiontime) May 12, 2022

      Vettel appeared on BBC’s Question Time back in May and discussed – among many other things – the ongoing climate crisis.
      Speaking on the show, he said: “Every time I step in the car, I love it.
      “When I get out of the car, of course I’m thinking is this something we should do, travel the world, wasting resources?”
      At a separate event, he then went on to qualify why it is he continues to race despite the impact the sport has on the climate.
      “I feel you could say I’m a hypocrite because I am doing something opposite to what I’m saying we need to look out for.
      “But I think we will not change people’s opinion by forbidding something, so forbidding me to drive the car I think will not have the effect we like.”
      ‘Save the bees’
      Vettel has taken it upon himself to campaign for saving the beesCredit: Splash
      The German feels this is an important cause which needs attentionCredit: Splash
      Vettel helped local kids in Austria build a “bee hotel”Credit: ESPN F1 Twitter
      The F1 driver was thrilled with how the project turned outCredit: ESPN F1 Twitter
      In 2021, Vettel worked with children in Austria to help them build a hotel for bees – which took the shape of a race car.
      After the unveiling, he said: “This morning was very exciting because I was out close to the track on a field and we installed a racing car – but a very unconventional racing car because it is a hotel for insects and bees.
      “I had a group of kids with me to build up the racing car. The idea behind it is to build up a little more space for insects, and in particular bees, to have more space where they can flourish and live.
      “Hopefully there will be a lots of flowers growing in the future and a lot of bees coming to their new home – it will be free of charge!”
      Vettel is also very active in Frutura’s BioBienenApfel society project which aims to create new habitats for bees.
      The insect has become endangered in recent years and Vettel has made it his mission to raise awareness.
      At the Austrian GP last month, he wore a “save the bees” shirt with the slogan: “There’s still a race to win”.
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      Promise to boycott Russian Grand Prix
      Vettel has had “No war” written on his helmet this seasonCredit: AFP
      He also had ‘Let the children play’ written on his helmet ahead of the Hungarian GPCredit: Splash

      Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but before F1 announced they would be cancelling the 2022 Russian Grand Prix, Vettel stated he would boycott the race should it go ahead.
      Speaking in February, he said: “My own opinion is I should not go, I will not go. I think it’s wrong to race in that country.
      “I’m sorry for the people, innocent people who are losing their lives, getting killed for stupid reasons under a very strange and mad leadership.
      “I woke up again after this morning’s news, shocked. I think it’s horrible to see what is happening.”
      Since then, he has had “no war” written on his helmet at F1 races this season, while at the Hungarian GP he had “let the children play” inscribed on the side. More

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      How Michael Schumacher ‘cries’ when he sees beautiful things and watches F1 races with pals at his home

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      MICHAEL Schumacher has not been seen or heard from for nearly nine years with total secrecy surrounding his health.But a few key clues have been hinted at by his friends and family which offer a fleeting insight into the reclusive F1 legend’s life.
      Michael Schumacher has not been seen or heard from since 2013Credit: EPA
      Schumacher suffered a traumatic brain injury while skiing in the Alps with his son Mick back in 2013.
      He was left in a medically induced coma before being released home and then ever since it has been near silence on the driver’s condition.
      His family, led by wife Corinna, closely protect Michael’s privacy and offer him a quiet life.
      Fans, however, have been offered a few small glimpses into the seven-time world champion’s world.
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      And this includes revelations he cries at beautiful things and watches F1 races with one of his oldest pals.
      Michael’s wife has never given a definitive update on his health, but in the Netflix documentary Schumacher she simply said he was “different”.
      Jean Todt just last week spoke of how he still loves to watch Grand Prixs with Michael.
      The champ’s son Mick is now racing in the sport with the Haas team, with the 23-year-old never commenting on his dad’s health, but saying he would “give up everything” to chat to him about F1.
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      Todt and Schumacher have been pals for years, with the 76-year-old Frenchman being a key part of the Ferrari team that saw the German win five world titles from 2000 to 2004.
      He is understood to be one of Michael’s few friends from his racing days who is allowed to see him – coming to visit twice a month.
      And he was reported to have been a regular visitor at the Ferrari and Mercedes racer’s bedside after his ski crash, with F1 champ Niki Lauda describing the pair as having a “deep and respectful friendship”.
      “I don’t miss Michael, I see him. Yes, it’s true, I watch races with Michael,” Todt told German TV channel RTL.
      “But sure, I guess what I miss is what we used to do together.”
      The ex-FIA president previously told how he “hopes the world” will be able to see his dear friend again, revealing Schumacher has “never changed”.
      He continued: “I don’t leave him alone. Him, Corinna, the family, we’ve had so many experiences together.
      “The beauty of what we have experienced is part of us and it goes on.
      “Sometimes success and money changes you. But Michael has never changed. He’s so strong.”
      ‘MICHAEL HAS NEVER CHANGED’
      Meanwhile, sources – described as “close relatives” – claimed in French magazine Paris Match back in 2018 that Schumacher cries when he sees natural beauty.
      They said: “When you put him in his wheelchair facing the beautiful panorama of the mountains overlooking the lake, Michael sometimes cries.”
      The two family members who “visit him often” said it was very encouraging that Schumacher still shows emotions.
      It was also reported in 2015 that Schumacher cries when he hears the voices of his wife Corinna and children, Gina-Maria and Mick.
      Italian newspaper Corriere della Serra says Schumacher is moved to tears when he hears familiar sounds – such as his wife and children or even his beloved dogs.
      “Schumi cries. And sometimes mysteriously,” the paper reported.
      “He cries when he hears his children, his wife’s voice, his dogs. In the silence of that room, a tear runs down his thin face at a known sound.
      “There is life, enclosed in a drop; there is the strength of a man who is moved and that moves each of us.
      “We have his tears, his senses exposed.”

      Michael Schumacher was always close pals with Jean TodtCredit: EPA
      And meanwhile in 2014, fellow F1 driver Philippe Streiff claimed that just over one year on from the crash that Schumacher could recognise friends and family – but couldn’t speak.
      Streiff, who was left quadriplegic by a 1989 crash, told Le Parisien Schumacher was “nevertheless starting to recognise those close to him”.
      He claimed he got his information from Schumacher’s wife and his surgeon – but Michael’s longtime manager Sabine Kehm denied the family had contact with Streiff.
      Cryptic comments by Schumacher’s former Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo in February 2016 sparked further speculation about the racer’s condition.
      He told reporters: “I have news and unfortunately it is not good. Life is strange.”
      And in a rare so-what official update, Schumacher’s lawyer Felix Damm told a German court that his client “cannot walk” as part of a lawsuit against magazine Die Bunte.
      He senses that loving people are around him, caring for him and, thank God, keeping the overly curious public awayGeorg Ganswein
      He said: “Michael cannot even stand with the help of his special therapists.
      “I cannot make any other comments about Michael’s health situation.”
      Die Bunte had claimed Schumacher was able to take steps and raise an arm months previously, which was rebutted by Kehm.
      German archbishop Georg Ganswein also offered hints about Michael’s health as he revealed emotional visit to see the 91-time race winner in 2016.
      He said although Schumacher’s face has “become a little fuller” the record-breaking driver still looks the same as he did when last seen by his millions of fans.
      “I sat opposite him, took hold of both hands and looked at him,” the 62-year-old – who is one of Pope Francis’s key advisers – said according to German newspaper Bild.
      Michael Schumacher is regarded as one of the greatest F1 drivers of all timeCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      “He senses that loving people are around him, caring for him and, thank God, keeping the overly curious public away.”
      And in one promising comment, controversial F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone hinted that Michael could once again return to the public eye.
      He said: “He is not with us at the moment.
      “But when he gets better, he’ll answer all the questions.”
      And all of these hints and cryptic remarks come as a vacuum of information fuels the rumours swirling around his health.
      But the only people who know for sure are Schumacher’s family and his closest pals.
      Corinna broke down in tears last Wednesday as her husband was awarded the State Prize of North Rhine-Westphalia.
      And the family are reported to be preparing to start spending the winter months at a property in Majorca – having “big plans” for their “new life”.
      Michael is one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time, dominating the sport in the early 2000s after rising to power in the 90s.
      He raced from 1991 to 2006, and again from 2010 to 2012 – a second act of his career which saw him become instrumental in setting up Lewis Hamilton’s dominant Mercedes team.
      The German won five world championships with Ferrari and two for Benetton.
      Schumacher retired in 2012, but just a year later he was involved in a life-changing skiing accident while on the slopes with Mick.
      And meanwhile, Schumacher’s former manager Willi Weber accused the star’s family of lying about his condition.
      The 80-year-old said he is still “angry” that the brood hasn’t updated him on the F1 icon’s health since his skiing accident nine years ago.
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      He took swipes at both Corinna and Jean Todt, saying: “They kept me out, telling me it’s too early, well now it’s too late.”
      Weber initially understood the need for secrecy from the Schumacher family but that since he got out of hospital, “we have only heard lies from them”. More

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      Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes team-mate George Russell SLAMS Ferrari and Red Bull – accusing them of ‘pushing F1 rules’

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      GEORGE RUSSELL has accused Mercedes’ rivals Ferrari and Red Bull of “pushing F1 rules”.The Silver Arrows new boy has produced a consistent season, but neither he nor Lewis Hamilton have been able to compete with the likes of Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc for wins for much of it.
      Lewis Hamilton and George Russell have been more competitive in recent weeksCredit: Rex
      Red Bull and Ferrari have ‘pushed’ rules, claims George RussellCredit: Rex
      Mercedes have narrowed the gap in recent weeks, with Hamilton collecting five consecutive podiums.
      And Russell, 24, believes that his team will be even more competitive in the second half of the season when new FIA technical directives are finally introduced from the Belgian GP onwards.
      The new rules had been intended to be rolled out last month, only to be delayed following a backlash from the likes of Ferrari and Red Bull.
      FIA chiefs have been keen to combat “porpoising”, as they look to protect the safety of drivers.
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      Russell reckons that things are about to heat up, telling Sky Sports: “Spa is going to be interesting.
      “There are some changes to some of the regulations which may bring other teams towards us.
      “I think we as a team have a lot of confidence in ourselves and faith that we are doing a great job and there’s no reason we can’t be in the mix.
      “There is no doubt Ferrari and Red Bull have pushed the regulations in that regard and we have respected it as the regulation was intended.
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      “There’s no guarantee that it would bring them closer to us. We know if it was on our car it would make us slower.
      “There’s no guarantees, every car is different but it’s not going to help them that’s for sure.”
      Red Bull chief Christian Horner hit back: “Ferrari still has a quick car and Mercedes are coming back at us. Maybe we don’t need to TD in Spa.

      “The technical directive has no effect on us. We need quick clarification on what the rules are for 2023. I hope as early as this week.
      “It’s ten past midnight for next year and Cinderella has already left.”
      The Formula 1 season has entered its summer break, with action to return at the Belgian Grand Prix later this month.
      Christian Horner is supremely confidentCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Michael Schumacher’s ‘new life’ in Majorca where his family will ‘jet ski, ride horses and see F1 pals’

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      MICHAEL Schumacher’s family are preparing to start a “new life” in Majorca, according to reports.It’s claimed the racing legend will be spending the winter months on the Spanish holiday island at a £27million villa.
      Michael Schumacher and his wife Corinna are reportedly relocating to MajorcaCredit: Rex Features
      Pictures show the luxurious £27million property linked to the SchumachersCredit: WENN
      His devoted wife Corinna and their children – F1 racer Mick and keen equestrian Gina-Maria’s – are all also reportedly expected to spend time at their new property, reports German magazine Die Bunte.
      It has been widely reported the family were planning to relocate to the sun soaked island, and they have been repeatedly linked to the plush pile near the ritzy town of Port Andratx.
      Corinna is said to have “big plans” for the family in Spain, including suggestions they will be setting up a horse ranch near their new home.
      Schumacher himself is reported to have made visits to the property by helicopter and spent time there.
      READ MORE ON SCHUMACHER
      And it comes as the ongoing mystery swirls around Michael’s health, with the legendary F1 driver not seen or heard from in nine years since a horrific ski crash.
      Michael suffered a traumatic brain injury after taking a fall which left him in a medically induced coma – and his family have kept his health a closely guarded secret.
      Even while still racing in F1, Schumacher kept his home and family life very private – and his wife Corinna is believed to be continuing to carry out his wishes.
      The new report – published this week in the German glossy mag and featured on its front page – details some of the family’s expected hopes and dreams for their future in Majorca.
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      Just as previously reportedly, it is claimed the family have purchased Villa Yasmin, which was once owned by Real Madrid boss Florentino Pérez.
      The huge property features two swimming pools, a large garden, a helipad, a guest villa and stunning sea views.
      And it is previously been reported the villa will be kitted out with the relevant medical equipment needed for Michael.
      It has also been reported the Schumachers have purchased the expansive plot of land, which is currently full of dilapidated buildings and almond trees.
      The plot reportedly cost them £2.3million and is described as an “absolute rarity in the region of south-west Majorca” due to how close it is to the sea.
      The Schumacher family are said to have previously enjoyed life on the island – and Die Bunte claims it is a favourite destination among Schuey’s F1 pals.
      Michael is said to have in the past visited his manager Willi Weber there – with his villa being just a 10 minute driver from their new estate.
      ‘BIG PLANS’
      Other F1 stars with ties to Majorca include German star Nico Hulkenberg, who got married on the island last month, and current Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, who also makes regular visits.
      British F1 world champion Nigel Mansell also once lived on the island in a luxurious property on a private estate.
      Die Bunte also reports that Gina-Maria and Mick both enjoy jet-skiing around the bay in the waters off the Balearic Island.
      Corinna is thought to have major ideas for their new home – including setting up their new plot of land to be a horse ranch.
      She wants to make sure Michael has the “best medical care” and is with the family “as much as possible”.

      Corinna Schumacher is a keen horse rider and has competed in competitionsCredit: Rex
      Michael’s son Mick pictured on a jet ski with F1 pal Esteban Ocon
      The family already have horses in Texas and at their home in Switzerland.
      She could seek to breed horses and sell them on the land – potentially even hosting competitions in Majorca.
      The land they have bought is reportedly designated as an agricultural area, meaning there should be no problems in building stables and setting up meadows.
      Reports of the Schumacher family ties to Majorca have emerged multiple times in the last four years – including reports they were planning to buy the plot land dating back to May 2021.
      The plot was reported at the time to have been to “raise and ride horses on”.
      Schumacher’s daughter is a non-professional horse rider and equestrian while Corinna won the European Championship in western-style horse riding in 2010.
      Gina-Maria’s boyfriend, Iain Bethke, is also a show jumper.
      Horses are a key part of the Schumacher family, with Michael himself also enjoying riding and taking part in rodeos.
      It was reported last year that Corinna was selling the family’s £6.4million mansion on Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
      The family initially denied plans in 2018 they were going to move into the plush villa, but reports have persisted – including claims neighbours saw them at the property in 2019.
      And the mayor also claimed the family had moved in.
      Schumacher, 53, suffered a horrific head injury while skiing with his son Mick in December 2013 – just one year after his retirement from F1.
      And ever since, mystery has loomed over his health – with only a slow trickle of information being fed out by the family and his team.
      Michael Schumacher and Corinna got married in 1995Credit: Rex Features
      Michael and Corinna have two children – daughter Gina-Maria and son MickCredit: Netflix
      No one outside of Schumacher’s inner circle – which has Corinna at its heart – really knows what is happening with Michael.
      Schumacher’s former manager of 20 years – Willi Weber – has fiercely raged about the lack of information as he accused the family of hiding the truth.
      The 80-year-old said he’s still “angry” at the Schumachers for not updating him on the F1 icon’s health.
      He said he initially understood the need for secrecy from the Schumacher family but that since he got out of hospital, “we have only heard lies from them”.
      “They kept me out, telling me it’s too early, well now it’s too late. It’s been nine years. Maybe they should just say it the way it is,” Weber told La Gazetta dello Sport.
      The lack of official updates has left room for speculation and conflicting reports from “insiders” about his slow progress.
      Some have claimed he was in a vegetative state while others claimed he was awake and able to talk.
      Schumacher’s pal ex-F1 boss Jean Todt – who is understood be one of few friends who goes to see the stricken driver – last week gave a rare update.
      The 74-year-old told German TV channel RTL: “I don’t miss Michael, I see him. Yes, it’s true, I watch races with Michael.
      “But sure, I guess what I miss is what we used to do together.”
      The former Ferrari chief previously told how he “hopes the world” will be able to see his dear friend again, revealing Schumacher has “never changed”.
      He continued: “I don’t leave him alone. Him, Corinna, the family, we’ve had so many experiences together.
      “The beauty of what we have experienced is part of us and it goes on.
      “Sometimes success and money changes you. But Michael has never changed. He’s so strong.”
      The F1 legend was a seven-time-world champion – winning five times for Ferrari and twice for Benetton – and is regarded as one of the greatest drivers of all time.
      He raced from 1991 to 2006, and again from 2010 to 2012, winning 91 races.
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      And the brief second act of his career saw him become instrumental in setting up Lewis Hamilton’s dominant Mercedes team.
      The Sun Online contacted Schumacher’s longterm manager Sabine Kehm for comment on the reports of their “new life” in Mallorca.
      Corinna and Gina-Maria Schumacher at a prizing giving in his Michael’s honour last weekCredit: Splash More