Jean Todt mantém laços com família de Michael Schumacher e evita falar sobre estado de saúde

Jean Todt, former FIA president and ex-Ferrari team principal, has once again publicly expressed his strong bond with Michael Schumacher’s family, maintaining a close and affectionate relationship. The French executive, who worked with the seven-time world champion during Ferrari’s golden years in Formula 1, recalled his friendship with Schumacher, especially after the skiing accident that left the former driver in critical condition.

The relationship between Todt and Schumacher goes far beyond what was seen on the racetrack. Since the German driver’s serious accident in 2013, Todt has been one of the few friends granted regular access to the Schumacher family home, maintaining direct contact with the former driver’s wife, Corinna Schumacher, and their children. In a recent interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, the former Ferrari boss reaffirmed his admiration and friendship with the family, emphasizing that their connection extends beyond motorsport.

Although he avoids commenting on Schumacher’s health condition, Todt reinforced that he respects the family’s decision to keep details about the former driver’s recovery private. Over the years, there has been much speculation about his condition, but the family has chosen to preserve his privacy, limiting the release of updates.

Michael Schumacher’s F1 Career and His Partnership with Jean Todt

Michael Schumacher cemented his name in Formula 1 history by winning seven world championships, five of which came consecutively with Ferrari between 2000 and 2004. His partnership with Jean Todt was crucial in Ferrari’s absolute dominance in the early 2000s, creating an era that left an indelible mark on motorsport.

The German driver started his F1 career in 1991, competing for Jordan before being signed by Benetton, where he won his first two world titles in 1994 and 1995. His move to Ferrari in 1996 marked the beginning of one of the most successful periods in the sport’s history. Under Todt’s leadership, Schumacher became Ferrari’s greatest icon, setting records that would only be matched years later by Lewis Hamilton.

Todt took over Ferrari’s management in 1993 and played a crucial role in restructuring the team, forming an unbeatable squad alongside Schumacher, Ross Brawn, and Rory Byrne. The relationship between the driver and the team boss became a solid partnership and deep friendship that continues to this day.

The Skiing Accident and Its Impact on the Schumacher Family

In December 2013, Michael Schumacher’s life changed dramatically after a skiing accident in the French Alps. The driver hit his head on a rock and suffered a severe traumatic brain injury. Despite wearing a helmet, the impact caused significant brain damage.

Schumacher spent months in a medically induced coma, and since then, his recovery has been shrouded in secrecy. The family opted to keep his condition private, and since 2014, he has remained under intensive treatment at home, with no public disclosure of his medical status.

Jean Todt is one of the few people who visit Schumacher regularly and maintain close contact with the family. In his rare statements about the matter, Todt always refrains from providing details about his friend’s condition, respecting the family’s choice.

Michael Schumacher’s Influence on F1

Schumacher’s legacy in Formula 1 extends beyond his titles and records. His winning mentality and dedication to teamwork were fundamental in transforming Ferrari into the dominant force that ruled the sport for years.

Additionally, Schumacher helped shape modern F1 racing standards, being one of the first drivers to emphasize physical conditioning as a key factor in performance.

Some of the German driver’s most notable achievements include:

• Seven world championships, a record tied with Lewis Hamilton
• 91 Grand Prix victories
• 68 pole positions
• 77 fastest laps
• 155 podium finishes

Schumacher was also a pioneer in technical car development, known for his ability to work closely with engineers to improve performance.

Jean Todt’s Role in Schumacher’s Legacy

Jean Todt played a decisive role in Michael Schumacher’s career. Beyond leading Ferrari during its most dominant period, he was responsible for creating an environment where the driver had all the support necessary to reach his full potential.

The relationship between Todt and Schumacher extended beyond Formula 1. After Schumacher retired in 2006, they remained close friends, and Todt was present at key moments in the former driver’s life. After the accident, Todt became one of the Schumacher family’s strongest allies, staying close and offering unconditional support.

Currently, Todt remains active in motorsport and is involved in road safety initiatives, working directly with the UN to promote awareness campaigns. Even away from Formula 1, he never fails to acknowledge Schumacher’s significance to his professional and personal journey.

Uncertain Future and Respect for Privacy

Since the accident, Schumacher’s fans have been eagerly awaiting updates on his condition. The family’s strict privacy policy generates curiosity, but it also shows the deep respect that those around him have for his dignity.

Few people beyond his immediate family, such as Corinna Schumacher and their children Gina and Mick Schumacher, have access to him. Mick, who followed in his father’s footsteps and joined Formula 1 in 2021, also refrains from publicly discussing his father’s condition.

Jean Todt remains one of Schumacher’s strongest supporters and consistently emphasizes that his relationship with Michael and his family goes far beyond motorsport. His unwavering loyalty and support demonstrate the depth of their friendship, a bond that withstands time and the hardships life has imposed.