F1 legend Michael Schumacher makes first public appearance in 11 years

Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher has reportedly been seen in public for the first time in 11 years, attending the wedding of his daughter, Gina-Marie, in Mallorca.

The 55-year-old, who has lived in total privacy since suffering a severe brain injury during a skiing accident in 2013, made a rare public appearance at the family’s luxury villa.

Gina-Marie, 27, tied the knot with Iain Bethke, 27, in a secluded ceremony at the Schumacher family’s four-acre estate, which boasts two swimming pools, a helipad, and sprawling gardens. The estate was purchased by the family in 2017 from Real Madrid chairman Florentino Perez.

The wedding, held under tight security, is believed to have been Schumacher’s first public interaction with friends and family members since his accident. Guests were required to leave their phones at the door to ensure privacy was maintained.

Schumacher's family, particularly his wife Corinna, has fiercely guarded his privacy since the accident. Only close family members and a small medical team have access to him, with Schumacher becoming estranged from his extended family, including his brother, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher.

Ralf, 49, recently commented on his relationship with the family, expressing his ongoing support despite their distance. “When I see his children Gina-Maria and Mick, my heart smiles,” Ralf said in an interview with Bunte.

The ceremony, which took place at around 4 pm, is the first sign that the Schumacher family may be easing their strict approach to privacy. There are rumours that Schumacher may attend more public events in the future, including a possible wedding for his son Mick, 25, who is reportedly engaged to Danish model Laila Hasanovic.

Mick Schumacher, an F1 reserve driver, congratulated his sister via Instagram, writing, “I’m so happy for you two.”

This rare public appearance by Michael Schumacher has raised hopes among fans that the legendary driver might make more public outings in the future.