Fans outraged as Michael Schumacher will not become honorary citizen of Kerpen, his hometown. There will be no honorary citizenship for Michael Schumacher.

Roots in Kerpen
Another sad chapter is added to the life of Michael Schumacher, this time linked to the origins of the seven-time German world champion. Born in 1969 in Kerpen, a small town in North Rhine-Westphalia that, as previously reported, is set to be demolished, Michael Schumacher grew up here alongside his brother Ralf. They honed their racing skills at the family-run karting track, and Michael Schumacher married Corinna in 1995. Despite representing his hometown on a global scale, local politicians do not seem to acknowledge the Ferrari legend’s contributions throughout his career.

No honorary citizenship
According to *Kölnische Rundschau*, Schumacher will not be granted honorary citizenship. This decision has been heavily criticized by his brother, who expressed strong disapproval: “A decision like this is typical of Germany,” the 49-year-old commented. “Success and achievements no longer matter to many. This is a problem in our country: instead of being proud of such a personality and their extraordinary accomplishments, people let things remain as they are.”

Criticism from fans
Reiner Ferling, President of Michael Schumacher’s Fan Club, is also outraged by this decision: “They should have at least consulted the family first,” he stated. “After everything that has happened, I can’t imagine the Schumacher family would even want Michael to become an honorary citizen. I am truly angry. The city cannot name someone who has won seven world titles for us as an honorary citizen. The way Michael is treated as a person is scandalous, but I have decided not to escalate the situation further.”

Reasons for the rejection
Ferling had launched a petition to nominate Michael Schumacher as an honorary citizen of Kerpen on the tenth anniversary of his severe skiing accident. However, despite initial support from Mayor Dieter Spürck, the City Council ultimately decided unanimously that Kerpen does not require an honorary code to recognize its deserving citizens. As a result, there will be no honorary citizenship for Michael Schumacher.