On Wednesday, Ferrari junior and Haas F1 driver Mick Schumacher was not able to accompany his family as former Ferrari and F1 legend Michael was honoured in his native Germany by receiving the prestigious State Prize from his German home state of North Rhine- Westphalia.
With the 53-year-old seven-time world champion shielded from the public eye since the tragic skiing accident in December 2013, his wife Corinna and daughter Gina received the prize at the ceremony in Cologne’s Motorworld. Former FIA president and Ferrari boss Jean Todt also attended the event.
“In Michael Schumacher we are honouring a man today who not only stands out for his sporting achievements. But above all, we pay tribute to Michael Schumacher beyond racing and the spotlight,” NRW premier Hendrik Wust said during the event. Wust praised Schumacher as a person “who has a big heart and for whom it was important to think about others,” highlighting donations from Schumacher and his family for victims of the 2004 tsunami in Asia and last year’s floodings in NRW and surrounding areas.
Corinna broke down in tears amid the standing ovation as her absent 53-year-old husband was awarded the State Prize of North Rhine-Westphalia – the local jurisdiction of his birthplace.
“That’s just natural,” Jean Todt, who remains a very a close family friend, said of Corinna’s tears – “No one planned it to be so emotional that tears were shed by Corinna, but sometimes it’s good to not always control yourself,” he said, as reported by Bild newspaper.
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“I don’t miss Michael. I can see him,” said the 76-year-old Frenchman – “But of course, what I miss is what we used to do together,” he told the German broadcaster ntv.
At the same time, the former Ferrari boss confirmed rumours about one thing the pair still mutually enjoy, despite the difficult circumstances: “Yes it’s true – I watch the races with Michael.” – Jean Todt added.
Along with Michael, another notable absentee on Wednesday was his son Mick. The German media informed that he had a stomach upset, but that the Haas driver will be able to take part in the next round of the 2022 Formula 1 season, the French Grand Prix at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet this weekend. it will not prevent the 23-year-old from racing his Haas in France this weekend.
Jean Todt said of Mick Schumacher: “I was so happy when he finished in the points in the last two races. There has been a lot of unfair pressure on him. What I really wish for him is the chance to drive the best car. Then he will be able to win races and titles.” – the former Ferrari boss concluded.
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